Dental Inlays and Onlays

In cosmetic dentistry, inlays and onlays are sometimes known as partial crowns. Inlays and onlays are used by cosmetic dentists to repair teeth that have sustained mild to moderate damage from tooth decay or from other sources.

Procedure Details

An inlay or onlay is fitted into the remaining portion of the tooth or teeth to strengthen them. Inlays are appropriate when the damage to the tooth is mild and onlays are used when the damage to the tooth is moderate. When you visit your cosmetic dentist, you can discuss if inlays or onlays – or another treatment option – are right for your teeth. 

Inlays and onlays can typically be applied to your teeth over the course of two visits to your cosmetic dentist. The process of applying inlays or onlays will begin with removing all of the decay in the damaged tooth or teeth. An image and an impression of the tooth will be taken and these will be sent to a laboratory where the inlays or onlays will be created. A temporary inlay or onlay will be placed during this visit to protect your tooth until the permanent restoration is available. The process of waiting for the fabrication of the permanent restoration to be completed, which can take up to two weeks, can sometimes be avoided if your dentist utilizes CEREC® technology, which allows for the creation of dental restorations at the dentist's office. Either way, when your permanent restoration is ready, it will be securely bonded in place and checked for proper fit and a natural-looking finish.

Contact a Dentist

If you think you may have teeth that could benefit from an inlay or onlay restoration, schedule a consultation to review your treatment options. Your dentist will work with you to determine which procedure is best suited to your individual dental health needs.