When a patient experiences structural tooth damage or tooth decay, our expert team at Yonge Eglinton Dental focuses on recommending the most effective treatment that restores both function and aesthetics.
In many cases, a standard filling or dental crown can be highly effective. However, there are times when a filling does not provide enough support to a weakened tooth and preparing the natural tooth for a full-coverage crown can be avoided.
Fortunately, there is a highly effective solution designed specifically for this middle ground: dental inlays and onlays. These custom-fit devices strengthen your smile while preserving as much of your healthy, natural tooth structure as possible.
What Are Inlays and Onlays?
Both a dental inlay and a dental onlay are custom-crafted restorations designed to repair teeth that have sustained too much damage or decay for a conventional filling.
According to the Canadian Dental Association (CDA), lab-made or custom-fabricated restorations, such as inlays and onlays, fall under the category of indirect fillings. The primary goal of an indirect filling is to rebuild the chewing surface, restore structural integrity, and maintain exact tooth shape while removing as little natural enamel and dentin as possible.
Because these restorations are built to withstand substantial chewing forces, they are typically used on the back teeth (i.e. the molars and premolars).
Inlay vs. Onlay: What Is the Difference?
The distinction between an inlay and an onlay comes down to the location of the repair and how much of the tooth surface needs coverage.
An inlay fits inside the tooth structure, resting comfortably within the deep grooves, pits, and contours of the chewing surface between the elevated, rounded points known as cusps. It does not extend over these outer points.
Conversely, an onlay provides a broader level of coverage. In addition to filling the central portion of the tooth, an onlay extends over one or more cusps, rebuilding the outer biting surface.
A simple way to picture it is that an inlay sits nestled inside the tooth, while an onlay drapes over part of its outer structure.
How Inlays and Onlays Are Made and Placed
The dental inlay procedure and onlay placement process is designed to be safe, precise, and comfortable from start to finish. Here is the step-by-step process that delivers an exceptional dental treatment experience:
- Assessment: Your dentist evaluates the tooth using visual examination and sometimes digital X-rays to determine whether a standard filling, inlay, onlay or crown is the ideal solution
- Freezing: Local anesthetic (freezing) is applied to thoroughly numb the tooth and surrounding tissue, ensuring you remain completely relaxed and comfortable throughout the appointment
- Preparing the tooth: The dentist gently removes the decayed or damaged portions of the tooth and shapes the remaining structure to receive and support the indirect filling
- Impression or scanning: An impression or high-resolution digital scan is taken of the prepared area to capture a precise microscopic map of your bite
- Fabrication: The restoration is custom-crafted to match your exact tooth contours
- Bonding and fitting: Once ready, the restoration is bonded securely to the tooth with specialized dental adhesives, and polished for a nearly-invisible appearance
- Bite check: Your dentist carefully checks your bite to verify that your natural chewing movement is functional and comfortable
Our team at Yonge Eglinton Dental will provide a complete outline of your treatment plan and answer all of your questions, so you can proceed with confidence.
Caring for an Inlay or Onlay
Maintaining an indirect restoration requires simple, consistent oral hygiene habits to ensure the restoration lasts as long as possible.
First, brush your teeth at least twice daily using fluoride toothpaste and floss thoroughly around every tooth every day. Although the material will not decay, the natural tooth structure underneath and around the margins remains susceptible to cavity formation.
Also, avoid using your teeth as tools or biting down directly on hard items like ice cubes, unpopped popcorn kernels, hard candies, or pen caps. If you experience nightly teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism), consult your dentist regarding a custom night guard to protect your restorations.
Finally, visit your dentist at least every six months for a complete dental examination, during which your dentist will inspect the condition of the inlays and onlays and evaluate their overall wear.
Find Out If an Inlay or Onlay Is Right for You
Determining whether a inlay or onlay is necessary is a collaborative decision made alongside your dentist following a clinical evaluation.
If your teeth have become damaged or are decaying, make an appointment with our dental team at Yonge Eglinton Dental. We will thoroughly examine your teeth and gums, as well as the underlying bone structure, and use our findings to recommend treatment options that will restore your smile’s health, functionality, and beauty.
Give our team of experts a call today. We are here to help!
Learn More About Inlays and Onlays from our Dentists at Yonge and Eglinton
Contact Yonge Eglinton Dental when you are ready to optimize your family’s oral health. We will work together to ensure your teeth and gums look great and are as strong and healthy as possible. Make an appointment today by calling 416-932-2222 or booking online. We look forward to seeing you!
Frequently Asked Questions About Inlays and Onlays
What is the difference between an inlay and an onlay?
Both options are custom indirect restorations used primarily for back teeth. An inlay rests inside the chewing surface grooves between the raised cusps, whereas an onlay covers a broader surface, extending over one or more cusps to rebuild outer tooth structure.
Is a dental inlay or onlay the same as a filling?
They differ in how they are constructed. A standard filling is placed directly into the prepared tooth cavity and shaped in a single visit. An inlay or onlay is custom-manufactured outside the mouth, making it an indirect restoration that is then bonded securely into place.
When would I receive an onlay instead of a full crown?
An onlay is recommended when a tooth is too compromised for a standard direct filling to hold, yet retains enough healthy structure that a full coverage crown can be avoided.
Is the process of getting an inlay or onlay comfortable?
Yes. Local freezing is administered prior to preparing the tooth, ensuring you feel comfortable throughout the procedure.
Can an indirect restoration replace an older, failing filling?
Yes. Replacing an older, worn-out filling with a custom inlay or onlay is a frequent treatment solution when the underlying tooth needs reinforced structural support.
