Restorative Dentistry›Inlays & Onlays
Inlays &
Onlays
At a Glance
2 appointments
Visits Required
Local
Anaesthesia
Porcelain / Composite
Material
10–20+ years
Lifespan
When a tooth has too much damage for a simple filling but not enough to justify a full crown, an inlay or onlay provides the ideal conservative solution. These precision-crafted indirect restorations offer superior fit, durability, and aesthetics compared to a standard filling — while preserving more of your natural tooth structure than a crown.
What Are Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are indirect restorations — meaning they are custom-fabricated in a dental laboratory and bonded into place, rather than built up directly in the mouth like a standard filling.
An inlay fits within the cusps (bumps) of the biting surface of a back tooth. An onlay covers one or more of the cusps — essentially a partial crown. Both offer an excellent middle ground between a filling and a full crown when the damage is moderate.
- Inlay — fits within the tooth's biting surface, not extending over the cusps
- Onlay — covers one or more cusps for greater structural coverage
- Both are more durable than direct fillings for moderate-sized restorations
- Fabricated from porcelain or composite for a tooth-coloured, natural result
Because inlays and onlays are custom-made to fit precisely, they seal more effectively than standard fillings — reducing the risk of bacteria entering the restoration over time.
When Is an Inlay or Onlay the Right Choice?
Your dentist will recommend an inlay or onlay when the damaged area of a tooth is too large to be reliably restored with a conventional filling, but a full crown would remove too much healthy tooth structure.
Common scenarios include large cavities, broken or fractured cusps, replacing old, large amalgam fillings that are failing, or situations where additional structural support is needed without committing to a full crown.
- Large cavities or areas of significant decay
- Fractured cusps that don't extend below the gumline
- Replacing failing large amalgam fillings
- Teeth that need more strength than a filling can provide but less coverage than a crown
What to Expect During Your Appointments
Treatment is completed over two appointments. The first involves preparing the tooth and taking impressions; the second involves bonding the finished restoration in place.
- First appointment — the tooth is prepared under local anaesthesia; a temporary filling is placed
- Impressions or digital scans are sent to the dental laboratory
- Second appointment — the custom inlay or onlay is bonded securely in place
- Bite is checked and adjusted to ensure a comfortable, natural fit
Benefits of Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and onlays combine the conservatism of a filling with the durability and fit of a lab-fabricated restoration — making them an excellent long-term investment for moderately damaged teeth.
- Highly durable — often lasting 10–20 years or more
- Conservative — preserves more tooth structure than a crown
- Precise fit — custom-made for an excellent marginal seal
- Natural-looking — tooth-coloured porcelain or composite
- Strengthens the remaining tooth structure
Common
Questions
What is the difference between an inlay and an onlay?
An inlay fits within the prepared cavity in the centre of the tooth, between the cusps. An onlay extends over one or more of the tooth's cusps. Onlays are used when the damage is more extensive and requires coverage of part of the tooth's outer surface.
How long do inlays and onlays last?
With proper care, inlays and onlays can last 10–20 years or more. Their longevity is generally superior to that of direct composite fillings, especially in larger restorations.
Are inlays and onlays covered by dental insurance?
Coverage varies by plan. Many insurance plans classify inlays and onlays similarly to crowns or major restorations. We'll review your benefits and provide a clear cost estimate before treatment begins.
Is the procedure painful?
Local anaesthesia is used to keep you comfortable throughout both appointments. The temporary filling protects the tooth between visits. The final bonding appointment is typically very straightforward and comfortable.
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Get Started?
Book your appointment at Keheewin Family Dental today and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile.
