Tooth damage doesn’t always require a full dental crown. In cases where a tooth is too compromised for a filling but not extensively damaged, inlays and onlays offer a reliable, conservative solution. Many patients are unfamiliar with these options and unsure which one might best restore their tooth. Working with a knowledgeable dentist in Tamarac, FL, can help clarify the differences and determine the most effective treatment based on the extent of the damage and long-term function.
What Are Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are custom restorations used to repair teeth with moderate damage—more than what a filling can support, but not so much that the entire tooth needs to be covered with a crown. Both are made outside the mouth in a dental lab or with digital technology and bonded to the tooth for a snug, durable fit.
Dentists often call them indirect restorations because they’re not sculpted chairside like traditional fillings. The main difference between the two lies in how much of the tooth they cover.
Inlays: Support for the Inside of the Tooth
An inlay fits into the grooves of a tooth, specifically within the chewing surface between the cusps (the pointed parts of the tooth). It’s ideal for repairing damage or decay that hasn’t extended to the outer edges of the tooth.
Inlays are a great option when:
- The decay or damage is too large for a regular filling
- The cusps of the tooth are still healthy
- You want a long-lasting, stable restoration
They are usually made of porcelain, ceramic, or a durable resin material color-matched to your tooth. Once bonded, they strengthen the structure and restore chewing function.
Onlays: Coverage That Includes the Cusps
An onlay covers a larger area than an inlay. It includes the central chewing surface and at least one cusp of the tooth. You can think of it as a partial crown—it provides reinforcement across more of the tooth but doesn’t require as much removal of healthy structure as a full crown would.
Dentists recommend onlays when:
- The tooth damage affects one or more cusps
- The structure of the tooth needs added support
- You want to preserve as much of the natural tooth as possible
Onlays are often used on molars and premolars, where chewing forces are strongest. Like inlays, they are made from strong materials and bonded in place.
How Are Inlays and Onlays Placed?
The process is straightforward and usually completed in two appointments:
- First Visit: The dentist removes decay or damaged material and cleans the tooth. A digital or physical impression is taken, which is used to design the custom inlay or onlay. A temporary filling may be placed to protect the tooth while your final restoration is made.
- Second Visit: The temporary is removed, and the inlay or onlay is bonded to the tooth using high-strength dental cement. The dentist checks your bite and polishes the surface for a smooth finish.
Same-Day vs. Lab-Made Restorations
Some dental offices offer same-day inlays and onlays using CAD/CAM (computer-aided design and manufacturing) technology. These restorations are milled in-office and placed in a single visit, saving time and eliminating the need for a temporary.
Lab-made restorations are crafted by a technician based on digital or physical impressions. Though they require two appointments, they may be preferred for more complex restorations or when specific materials are needed.
Why Choose Inlays or Onlays Over Fillings or Crowns?
Dentists who recommend inlays or onlays are often focused on conservative dentistry. The approach is to preserve as many healthy teeth as possible while providing strong, lasting results.
- Compared to Fillings: Fillings work for small cavities, but larger ones can weaken the tooth. Inlays and onlays offer more strength and stability.
- Compared to Crowns: Crowns are full-coverage and may require the removal of more enamel. Inlays and onlays preserve more of the original tooth while still reinforcing its structure.
How Long Do Inlays and Onlays Last?
With proper care, inlays and onlays can last 10–15 years or longer. Their longevity depends on:
- The quality of the material
- Oral hygiene habits
- Avoiding grinding, clenching, or chewing hard objects
- Getting regular dental checkups to catch wear or damage early
Materials like porcelain and zirconia are known for their durability, and with good home care, your restoration can last well over a decade.
How to Care for Inlays and Onlays
Taking care of your restoration is easy and mirrors a healthy oral hygiene routine:
- Brush twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily to remove plaque and debris between teeth
- Avoid biting on ice and pens or using your teeth to open packaging
- Use a nightguard if you clench or grind your teeth
- See your dentist every 6 months for exams and professional cleanings
If you ever notice sensitivity, a change in your bite, or something feeling loose, call your dental office to have it checked.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are inlays and onlays better than fillings?
Yes—for moderate damage. They’re stronger, last longer, and offer better protection than large fillings.
Do inlays and onlays hurt?
The procedure is similar to getting a filling. Local anesthetic is used to keep you comfortable during prep.
Can inlays and onlays fall out?
Not typically. When bonded properly, they stay in place for years. If you feel movement, call your dentist.
Will people see my inlay or onlay?
They’re designed to match your tooth color, blending naturally, especially if they’re made of ceramic or porcelain.
Ask a Dentist in Tamarac, FL, About Your Best Option
Inlays and onlays are reliable, conservative options for repairing moderately damaged teeth. They allow your dentist to save as much of the healthy tooth as possible while reinforcing the structure and restoring full function. Whether you’re dealing with a large cavity, a cracked cusp, or a worn-down tooth, this type of restoration may be the perfect fit.
If you’re not sure whether you need a filling, crown, or something in between, schedule a consultation with Friedman Dental Group. Our team can evaluate your tooth and help you decide if an inlay or onlay is the right choice for lasting repair and comfort.