Inlays & Onlays

Inlays and onlays are variations of dental restorations used when a filling is insufficient to restore or repair a tooth. If more than half of a tooth’s biting or chewing surface is damaged, a filling will not be effective, and an inlay or onlay will be used instead. While they are made of the same materials as a filling (usually gold, porcelain, or composite resin), inlays and onlays cover significantly more of the tooth.

Inlays closely resemble fillings, fitting into the hollow of a tooth. They are larger than a filling but don’t reach outside the cusps or the outside corners of the tooth. Onlays are larger and extend over at least one of the cusps of the damaged tooth. An onlay fills the cavity, provides support, and strengthens the tooth to prevent breakage.

Inlay & Onlay Placement

Inlays and onlays require two dental appointments. At your first visit, Dr. George removes the damaged or decayed part of the tooth, disinfects the area, and prepares the tooth for the inlay or onlay. He then takes an impression of your tooth and sends it to our lab, where the inlay or onlay is fabricated. Dr. George will seal the tooth with a temporary sealant and schedule your next appointment.

At your next appointment, we will remove the temporary sealant, and Dr. George will check to make sure your new inlay fits properly. It is then bonded to your tooth with dental resin and polished to a natural sheen.

Inlay & Onlay Frequently Asked Questions: 

Do inlays or onlays weaken my teeth?

No. On the contrary, we use strong dental resins to bond them directly to your teeth. These high-strength resins can increase the strength of your teeth by up to 75%.

Will I have a temporary filling between my first and second appointments?

Yes. Dr. George will temporarily fill the decayed tooth with a protective filling to safeguard the area while your inlay or onlay is being fabricated. While the temporary filling is not as strong or durable as the permanent restoration, it serves an important protective function. We advise you to avoid chewing on that side of the mouth until the permanent restoration is placed to ensure its integrity.

Dr. George can determine whether a filling, inlay, onlay, or dental crown is the appropriate restoration for your decayed or damaged tooth. Please contact George Family Dental Care at Plantation Office Phone Number (954) 792-6002 to schedule an appointment to restore your tooth and relieve your pain.

How long will my inlay or only last?

With good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, you can expect them to last anywhere from 10 to 30 years.

What is the difference between a filling and an inlay?

An inlay is typically used to fill a larger hole or cavity than a filling. The composite filling material can be quickly placed but is not as strong and does not precisely fit the contours of the opening. An inlay is crafted based on an impression of the tooth and is permanently bonded in place, making it more durable and strengthening the tooth.

What is the difference between an onlay and a crown?

An onlay covers the tooth’s biting surface and is permanently bonded into place. It is less invasive than a crown, which covers the entire visible portion of the tooth down to the gumline. To permanently attach a crown, more of the tooth’s outer surface must be removed.