Inlays & onlays · between fillings and crowns
The right-sized restoration for a tooth in between
Precision porcelain that fills exactly what's missing — stronger than a standard filling, more conservative than a full crown.
When an inlay or onlay is the right call
- A back tooth with too much decay for a regular filling, but not enough damage to need a crown.
- A large old filling that's cracking or weakening the tooth around it.
- A tooth with one cusp broken off from grinding or impact — an onlay rebuilds it without sacrificing the healthy parts.
- A patient who wants tooth-colored repairs instead of metal.
Inlay vs. onlay vs. crown
Inlay — replaces material inside the cusps (the high points) of a back tooth. Sits flush in the chewing surface.
Onlay — covers one or more cusps in addition to the inner surface. Used when one of the chewing peaks is damaged.
Crown — covers the entire visible tooth. The most extensive restoration, used when the tooth is too damaged for an inlay or onlay alone.
Common questions
Frequently asked
- What's the difference between an inlay, an onlay, and a crown?
- An inlay sits inside the cusps of a back tooth — replacing material between the high points. An onlay covers one or more cusps. A crown covers the entire visible tooth. We use the smallest restoration that still gives your tooth long-term strength.
- Why not just place a regular filling?
- When decay is large, a standard composite filling can weaken the tooth over time and lead to fractures. A lab-fabricated inlay or onlay restores the structure of the tooth much more reliably.
- What are they made of?
- Usually porcelain or composite. Porcelain matches the natural tooth and resists wear and staining; composite is a slightly more conservative option for some teeth. We pick based on the tooth's location and your bite.
- How many visits will it take?
- Typically two. First visit: shape the tooth and take impressions, place a temporary. Second visit (about 2 weeks later): try in, adjust, and cement the permanent restoration.
- How long do they last?
- With good care, 10–20 years is common. They're more durable than direct composite fillings and protect the tooth from the kind of fracture that often leads to a crown or extraction.
- Is it covered by insurance?
- Most plans cover inlays and onlays as restorative procedures. The level of coverage depends on your specific plan. We'll verify benefits and provide an estimate before scheduling.
We'd love to see you on Thomson Drive
Call, message, or schedule online — whichever's easiest for you.