Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and Onlays are lab-made restorations that are placed on teeth when the
cavity or lost tooth structure is too large to be restored by a simple filling.
The process of making an inlay is very similar to a crown. After the tooth is
prepared, it is cemented or bonded to the tooth.
 There are different materials that inlays are made of, including gold,
porcelain, and composite resins. Porcelain and composite inlays and onlays are
cosmetic alternatives to fillings and are very strong compared to regular white
fillings. Gold inlays and onlays are also suitable alternatives, but their
appearance makes them less popular.
Your dentist will explain when an inlay or onlay is a viable treatment option
for you. In general, inlays and onlays can replace most back teeth fillings and
are sometimes cosmetically preferred over conventional fillings. At the same
time, they are more conservative than crowns.
As far as cost is concerned, because the process of making an inlay or onlay
is similar to a crown, its cost is also comparable. But when considering the
longevity of inlays and onlays, they can end up costing less than traditional
fillings.
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