Inlays and Onlays: What Are They and When Do You Need Them?

When you have a cavity or a damaged tooth, your dentist may recommend a filling or a crown to restore the tooth's function and appearance. However, in some cases, a filling may not be sufficient to repair the tooth, while a crown may be too invasive or expensive. That's where inlays and onlays come in – they are an intermediate option that can help you restore your tooth's strength and beauty without removing too much healthy tooth structure.

So, what are inlays and onlays? In simple terms, they are custom-made restorations that are designed to fit precisely into the cavity or the damaged area of the tooth. Inlays are used when the damage is limited to the grooves and cusps of the tooth, while onlays are used when the damage extends to one or more of the tooth's cusps.

Inlays and onlays can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, composite resin, and gold. Your dentist will recommend the best material for your specific needs based on factors such as the location and size of the restoration, your bite force, and your budget.

One of the main advantages of inlays and onlays is that they are custom-made to fit your tooth precisely, which means that they provide a better seal and a more natural appearance than standard fillings. Additionally, inlays and onlays are more durable and long-lasting than fillings, which means that they can help you avoid further damage and decay to the tooth.

Inlays and onlays are also less invasive than crowns, which means that they require less tooth structure to be removed. This is particularly important for patients who have a healthy amount of tooth structure remaining and want to preserve as much of it as possible.

So, when do you need an inlay or an onlay? Your dentist will recommend this type of restoration if you have a cavity or a damaged tooth that is too large for a filling but not extensive enough for a crown. Inlays and onlays are also a good option if you have a cracked tooth or if you need to replace an old filling that has deteriorated over time.

In conclusion, inlays and onlays are a versatile and effective option for restoring damaged or decayed teeth. They offer several advantages over standard fillings and crowns, including better durability, a more natural appearance, and less invasiveness. If you think you may need an inlay or an onlay, talk to your dentist to see if this is the right option for you.