Inlays & Onlays
A dental inlay or onlay is like a very large dental filling, used to strengthen and repair decayed, cracked or fractured rear teeth.
An inlay (as its name suggests) is applied in a tooth; an onlay is placed on a tooth.
Made in a Dental Lboratory
The difference between these and fillings is that inlays and onlays are crafted in a dental laboratory, just like crowns.
In a case where more than half the grinding surface of a molar needs to be filled or repaired, an inlay or onlay may be a better choice than a filling – stronger and longer-lasting. They are generally used when more than a filling, but less than a crown, is needed.
Materials
Here at Dr. Maxon Love Dental Clinic, the material used for inlays and onlays is either gold or ceramic. Gold has the advantage of strength. Ceramic has the advantage of being tooth-colored.
For all your dental questions, call for a Free Consultation. Dr. Maxon Love and her staff will be glad to explain everything more fully.