What are Dental Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are replacements for silver fillings. They are made of composite resin material, porcelain, or gold by a dental laboratory. The dentist then glues them to the tooth. An inlay sits in a hole inside the tooth and an onlay sits on top of the tooth to build up its shape. Their use helps to conserve much of the natural tooth structure.

Inlay/Onlay Treatment

Treatment involves isolating the tooth and removing any old fillings or damaged tooth structure under local anesthesia. The dentist makes an impression of the tooth, then the inlay or onlay is created from porcelain, gold, or composite resin material. The inlay/onlay is cemented securely into place. Dr. Wakter may make adjustments to ensure the tooth is comfortable to bite on. Inlays and onlays are very strong, often lasting much longer than amalgam fillings. Inlays and onlays usually take 2-3 appointments.