Dental Inlay & Onlay
Dental inlays and onlays are alternatives to crowns and fillings to treat cavities and dental decays. If a patient has a cavity that is too severe to be treated with a dental filling but not too serious to necessitate root canal therapy and the use of a crown your dentist can treat the cavity with either an inlay or an onlay.
Both dental inlay & onlay are made in the laboratory and can either be made of cast metal, porcelain, or composite resin material. Depending on the type of materials being used, they can have a tooth-colored or metallic color.
Dental Inlays
A dental inlay fills cavities at any portion of a tooth’s chewing surface between the cusps of the tooth.
Dental Onlays
A dental onlay fills in cavities for a larger area and restores any portion of a tooth’s chewing surface, including the tooth’s cusps.
Dental onlays work similarly to crowns, with the difference that they do not cover the entire surface of the tooth.
How Much do Inlays and Onlays cost?
Inlays and onlays are covered by many insurance providers.
They are custom-made, so it’s usually more expensive than fillings but in the long term, they will be less costly because they are more durable.
Our patients at Sun Dental Gallery in Côte des Neiges, Montreal, have access to comprehensive restorative dentistry services to restore the form and function of their teeth. Our dentists can evaluate your teeth condition and recommend a personalized treatment plan designed to help you get your smile back.
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(514) 731-1443
Frequently Asked Questions
What are dental inlays and onlays?
Dental inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations used to repair teeth that have moderate decay or damage. They are an excellent alternative to traditional fillings and dental crowns when a tooth needs more support than a filling can provide but does not require a full crown. Inlays and onlays are designed to restore the tooth’s strength, function, and natural appearance.
What is the difference between a dental inlay and a dental onlay?
A dental inlay fits within the grooves of a tooth’s chewing surface and repairs damage between the tooth’s cusps. A dental onlay covers a larger portion of the tooth and can restore one or more of the tooth’s cusps without covering the entire tooth like a dental crown. Your dentist will recommend the most appropriate option based on the extent of the damage.
Are dental inlays and onlays better than fillings?
In many cases, yes. Inlays and onlays are stronger and more durable than large dental fillings because they are custom-made in a dental laboratory for a precise fit. They provide better support for weakened teeth and may last significantly longer with proper care.
How much do dental inlays and onlays cost?
The cost of dental inlays and onlays depends on the size of the restoration, the material selected, and your dental insurance coverage. Although they typically cost more than traditional fillings, they are highly durable and may provide better long-term value by preserving more of your natural tooth.
When do I need a dental inlay or onlay?
Your dentist may recommend an inlay or onlay when:
- A cavity is too large for a traditional filling.
- The tooth is cracked or weakened but does not require a crown.
- There is enough healthy tooth structure remaining to preserve the natural tooth.
- You want a durable and natural-looking restoration.