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What are Dental Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays/Onlays and overlays are commonly referred to as partial dental crowns and are often used to restore a tooth, strengthen it, and prevent further damage. The affected tooth will be used as a base, and the inlay, onlay, or overlay, consisting of a ceramic composite or gold, will be placed on it, per the best treatment choice and the patient’s choice. A dental inlay only fills the space between the cusps of a tooth, while an onlay/overlay covers a larger area, including one or more cusps on the chewing surface of the tooth, essentially acting as a more extensive restoration than an inlay.

dental inlays and onlays

Restorative Inlays

An inlay is used to fill damage or decay within the cusp tips of the tooth (the raised points of a tooth). It is a custom-made filling that fits into the grooves of the tooth and does not extend over the cusps. Inlays are placed within the tooth’s center, where the chewing surface has been damaged or decayed, without covering the outer edges or cusps. They are often used to support the tooth structure when a cavity is too large for a regular filling but does not require a full crown. Inlays can be made from porcelain, composite resin, or gold, and they are bonded to the tooth.

Restorative Onlays

A dental onlay/overlay is more extensive than an inlay. It covers one or more cusps of the tooth and sometimes extends over the entire biting surface. It is also sometimes referred to as a “partial crown” because it restores a significant portion of the tooth’s structure. Onlays/overlays are placed on the tooth’s surface and cover the cusps, protecting a larger area than an inlay. They are used when the damage or decay extends beyond the center of the tooth and affects one or more of the cusps, but the entire tooth does not need a full crown. Like inlays, onlays/overlays can be made from porcelain, composite resin, or gold.

Why Would I Need an Inlay or Onlay?

A person may need a dental inlay or onlay/overlay to repair a tooth that is damaged or decayed but does not require a full crown. These restorations are used when the tooth has too much damage for a regular filling but not enough to call for more extensive treatment. Specific reasons why someone may need an inlay or onlay/overlay include tooth decay, a failed dental filling, a weak tooth, a worn down tooth, or cosmetic concerns. 

Schedule a Consultation

If you are interested in learning more about dental inlays and onlays / overlays, please contact Dental & TMJ Specialists of Greater DC in Bethesda, MD, today. Our friendly dental office team is dedicated to providing outstanding care for each and every one of our patients. 

Dental Inlay and Onlay FAQs