Inlays and Onlays

Sometimes a patient has a cavity that is too severe to be treated with a dental filling but not serious enough to necessitate root canal therapy and the use of a crown. In these instances, our dentist at Aurora Hills Dental can treat the tooth decay and reshape and restore the tooth’s surface with either an inlay or an onlay. 

What Are Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are similar to dental fillings because they are used to treat cavities and tooth decays. They differ from dental fillings in that they are used to cover, restore, and reshape a much larger portion of a patient’s tooth. 

Both inlays and onlays create a tight seal over the surface of your tooth, helping to prevent further tooth decay and infection while restoring, reshaping, stabilizing, and strengthening the tooth’s overall structure. 

Dental Inlays

A dental inlay is used to restore any portion of a tooth’s chewing surface up to the cusps (outer ridges) of the tooth. 

Dental Onlays

A dental onlay restores any portion of a tooth’s chewing surface in addition to one or more of the tooth’s cusps. 

What Are Inlays and Onlays Made From?

Dental inlays and onlays can be made from composite resin (the same material used in many dental fillings) or porcelain. Depending on the patient’s preference and the size and visibility of the inlay or onlay, our dentist can help you determine which material is best for you. 

Composite resin is long-lasting and can be dyed to blend in with the surrounding teeth. Porcelain offers slightly more durability than composite resin and typically provides the most natural, tooth-like appearance of all materials used in restorative dentistry. 

Restorative Dentistry at Aurora Hills Dental

Patients of Aurora Hills Dental have access to comprehensive restorative dentistry services, including inlays and onlays designed to restore the form and function of their teeth. Whether your teeth have been damaged due to tooth decay, disease, injury, age, above-average wear and tear, our dentist, Dr. Zalesky, can evaluate your oral health, the condition of your teeth, and recommend a personalized treatment plan designed to help you get your smile back.