Inlay and Onlay fillings are types of restorations used to repair decayed or damaged areas of the teeth. They are typically applied when the damage is too extensive for a standard filling but not large enough to require a dental crown. Both types come with their own advantages and disadvantages. The choice between them depends on the condition of the tooth and the extent of the decay.
Let’s take a closer look at these two restorative options.
What are Inlay and Onlay Fillings?
Inlay and Onlay fillings are custom-made restorations designed in a dental laboratory. They are most commonly made from ceramic material, which is why they are also known as porcelain fillings. The dentist usually bonds the filling to the tooth during the procedure.
They are an alternative solution for advanced tooth decay and are used when standard fillings are not sufficient for the extent of damage. In cases of significant tooth damage, Inlays and Onlays are effective at preventing tooth loss. They serve both restorative and aesthetic purposes by preserving the tooth and enhancing its appearance.
What Is the Difference Between Inlay and Onlay Fillings?
The difference between Inlay and Onlay fillings lies in the area of application and the size of the cavity. Both types are custom-designed based on the tooth’s shape and structure, but they differ in application, durability, and appearance.
An Inlay covers a smaller portion of the tooth and is applied to the chewing surface of the tooth, especially in cavities between the cusps. It is typically made of porcelain or composite materials. It requires the removal of less tooth material and focuses more on aesthetics. However, Inlays tend to be less durable compared to Onlays.
An Onlay, on the other hand, is used when the damage extends to the cusps or side surfaces of the tooth. It covers a larger area and may involve more extensive preparation. Materials used include porcelain, composite resin, or gold alloy.
While Onlays may be less focused on aesthetic detail than Inlays, they are generally more durable due to the larger area they cover and the additional structural reinforcement they provide.
What Are the Advantages of Inlay and Onlay Fillings?
The popularity of Inlay and Onlay fillings comes from their aesthetic appeal, conservativeness, and long-lasting durability. They also preserve more natural tooth structure compared to conventional fillings. Let’s look at their advantages in more detail:
- Aesthetic Appearance: Inlay and Onlay fillings closely match the natural color of your teeth, offering a natural and seamless look with minimal discoloration over time.
- Protective Function: Inlays prevent decay from progressing and help preserve healthy tooth tissue. Onlays cover the tooth surface to protect it from wear and future decay.
- Minimal Tooth Removal: These methods require less removal of tooth structure compared to traditional fillings, helping maintain the integrity of the natural tooth.
- Longevity: Inlay and Onlay restorations last longer than regular fillings and require fewer repairs or replacements.
- Biocompatibility: The materials used—typically composite resins or ceramics—are biocompatible with the human body.
- Reduced Sensitivity: These treatments cause less irritation to the tooth’s pulp, reducing post-treatment sensitivity.
- Natural Fit with Adjacent Teeth: These fillings integrate well with surrounding teeth and maintain natural contact points.
How Are Inlay and Onlay Fillings Applied?
The Inlay-Onlay filling procedure is performed under local anesthesia. First, the tooth is cleaned, isolated, and any decay or damaged tissue is removed. For Inlays, the inner cavity is shaped; for Onlays, the outer and side surfaces of the tooth are prepared and smoothed.
An impression of the prepared space is taken to create a custom-fit restoration.
While the permanent filling is being fabricated, a temporary filling is placed. The impression is then sent to a lab where the Inlay or Onlay is made from ceramic or composite resin materials.
At the second appointment, the temporary filling is removed. The dentist checks the fit of the Inlay or Onlay and bonds it into place using a special adhesive. A curing light is used to harden the material. Finally, the edges are polished, and the bite is adjusted for a proper fit.
How Much Do Inlay and Onlay Fillings Cost?
The cost of Inlay and Onlay fillings can vary based on several factors, including the materials used, the location of the tooth, the patient’s overall oral health, and the area of application.
Generally, these types of fillings are more expensive than standard ones. However, considering their durability, they may be a more economical solution in the long term.
Other factors that affect the price include the services provided by the dental clinic and the experience and expertise of the dentist. For precise pricing, it is recommended to consult your dentist or clinic.
If you'd like to learn more about Inlay-Onlay filling costs, feel free to contact us. With Dentakay, experience long-lasting and high-quality dental restorations!
