What is the Difference Between Inlays and Onlays?
In the past, dental inlays were commonly used as an alternative to fillings. However, they are now
mainly used to treat deeper cavities that cannot be repaired with composite or amalgam fillings. At
Dentist of Anaheim, we use tooth-colored materials like ceramic, porcelain, or dental composite to
create inlays. These materials bond to the teeth, providing a strong, natural-looking solution that
requires less time than a dental crown.
Dental onlays, on the other hand, extend onto the chewing surface of back teeth to replace lost
cusps caused by damage or decay. Gold was previously the only material used for onlays, but
tooth-colored materials are now available to provide a more natural look and feel. Like inlays,
onlays bond to the tooth and enhance its strength.
What is the Inlays and Onlays Process?
During the procedure, your tooth will be numbed with topical anesthesia, and the decay will be
gently removed. Once your tooth is prepared, we will take an impression and make a model to create
the inlay or onlay using tooth-colored material. A temporary filling will be placed to protect your
tooth. On the second visit, the permanent inlay or onlay will be attached and hardened using a
specialized light.