Three FAQs About Inlays and Onlays

Posted on 2/22/2021 by Dr. Nick Raptou

Tooth decay is an incredibly common dental issue that fortunately has a wide variety of solutions. Cavities and chipped teeth can bring down the tooth's performance to chew or be cleaned properly, and they can also cause discomfort. Inlays and onlays exist to solve these forms of tooth damage, but can often be confusing to understand.

How do Inlays and Onlays Differ?

Inlays and onlays are unlike fillings from a technical standpoint, but they do share many similarities with fillings. They are a form of reconstructing and repairing the tooth. Inlays are used when a tooth's damage is larger than a traditional simple filling.

Inlays will tend to be shaped and fitted inside a tooth, thus completing the restoration of the tooth. For onlays, these restorations revolve around the cusp of the tooth. This is the jagged more complex edges of a tooth. Not quite yet a crown, onlays repair parts of the outer exposed portions of teeth.

What is the Process for Inlays and Onlays?

A patient's gums are anesthetized and the tooth in question is filed down to the right specifications needed prior to getting an impression taken. We will then take the impression, and a temporary inlay or onlay is created. After a few weeks, it is replaced with the refined permanent inlay or onlay during a follow-up appointment with us.

Which is More Expensive Between the Two Procedures?

Because both inlays and onlays are more involved than a simple filling, so it is reasonable to expect to pay more than what a filling would cost. Onlays will tend to be more expensive than inlays due to their nature of being more complex. Material is also a factor for pricing. Gold is more affordable than composite resin, and porcelain is more expensive than both. The material you use will depends on your needs. If you have any questions regarding your reconstructive needs, have confidence calling our offices today.

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