Dental Inlays and Onlays

Dental Inlays and Onlays in Bedford, Bloomington, Greenwood, and Indianapolis, IN

Inlays and onlays are bonded directly onto the teeth using special high-strength resins that can actually increase the strength of a tooth by 75 percent. As a result, they can last 10 – 30 years. Both inlays and onlays can be made of porcelain, gold, or composite resin. These pieces are bonded to the damaged area of the tooth.

What is a dental inlay?

An inlay, which is similar to a filling, is used inside the cusp tips of the tooth. Inlays are molded and fitted into the chewing surface of a tooth that has been damaged through decay or injury. They are created using an imprint of the affected areas that are sent to a lab for manufacturing. An inlay fits into the hollow of the tooth, but they do not affect the cusps. When the dentist takes the impression, they also attempt to best match the color of the tooth as closely as possible. This way when they are placed in the mouth they are not noticeable. The material used for an inlay can be either porcelain or a composite material that is stronger and more durable than traditional fillings.

What is a dental onlay?

An onlay is a more substantial reconstruction, similar to the inlay but extending out over one or more of the cusps of the tooth. Onlays are used for decay and damage to the cusps of a tooth as well as the biting surface. These are used when a cavity is too big to fill with a standard filling, or when the tooth could crack due to weakness. An onlay will increase the strength of a tooth and protect the decaying area. Unlike an inlay, this area can include the cusps as well as the space in between.