Inlays & Onlays

What is the Difference between an Inlay and an Onlay?

Inlays and onlays are similar types of restorations that are beneficial to repair and protect a posterior tooth that has sustained damage. The type of damage that the tooth has sustained will ultimately determine which type of restoration will be most beneficial. If    you are suffering from a large cavity or crack in one of your molars, an onlay will be used to cover the top of your tooth and the cusp. If the decay or damage is not as severe, but damage has occurred within the cusp of your tooth, an inlay is most likely to be the best solution for you.

Inlays are more appropriate for damage within the cusps of the teeth, while onlays repair damage that extends down the side of the tooth.

How Are Inlays and Onlays Different from a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is also used to protect a tooth that has become compromised by decay or a fracture. However, unlike an inlay or onlay that covers the surface of the tooth or are placed within the cusps of the tooth, a crown is customized to fully encapsulate the damaged tooth. Typically, when compared to an inlay or onlay, a crown will require more of a customized fitting over your tooth. This means that it requires additional alteration of your natural tooth. A dental crown is a trusted solution that can have many great benefits, but it may not always be the best solution for a specific issue. During a consultation, our doctors will examine your damaged tooth and make a determination as to which type of restoration offers the most protection for your tooth.

Dental inlays and onlays provide a more conservative approach than a regular crown, more protection than a traditional filling, and a beautiful, natural appearance that closely matches your natural tooth.

Advantages of Inlays and Onlays

Inlays and onlays offer various benefits, including pain reduction, protecting a damaged tooth, and future prevention of tooth loss. They also offer additional benefits and advantages:

Metal-Free: The materials used are primarily porcelain and ceramic, which allows them to provide a strong, durable solution, while also giving a true, natural-looking appearance.

Customized Fit: During your visit, we will take impressions of your tooth to ensure that the inlays and onlays fit comfortably over the surface of your tooth and do not affect your bite.

Tooth Preservation: If your tooth has sustained moderate damage or decay, an inlay or onlay can provide a solution that helps restore the tooth without further alteration of the structure of your tooth.

Schedule Your Appointment

If your tooth requires a restoration because it has been damaged by decay, our doctors can help you determine which type of treatment option will deliver the best results. To schedule your appointment, please call our office at (914)241-1191, or contact us online today.