Inlay Vs Onlay

Introduction

Inlay and Onlay restorations are two popular methods used in dentistry to repair and restore damaged teeth. Inlays and onlays are made to fit precisely on the surface of the tooth and are used to replace a missing tooth, as well as to restore a damaged one.

Inlays and onlays are both used to restore the structure and strength of the tooth, while also providing aesthetic benefits. The difference between the two lies in the size and shape of the restoration.

Inlay Restorations

Inlays are indirect restorations that are placed inside the cusps, or “cusp tips”, of the teeth. Inlay restorations are made of porcelain, gold, or composite materials, and are custom-made to fit the size and shape of the individual tooth. Inlays are used for smaller damage, such as to repair a small cavity, or to restore a tooth after a filling has been removed. Inlays provide a strong and durable restoration that is colour matched to match the surrounding tooth.

Onlay Restorations

Onlays are also indirect restorations, but they are larger than inlays and cover one or more cusps of the tooth. Onlays are more commonly used for more significant damage, such as when a large portion of the tooth has been damaged or broken. Onlays are used to replace a missing tooth, or to restore a large cavity. Onlays are typically made of porcelain or gold, and are custom-made to fit the size and shape of the individual tooth. Onlays provide a strong and durable restoration that can also be colour matched to the existing tooth.

Advantages of Inlay and Onlay Restorations

Inlays and onlays offer some unique advantages compared to other types of restorations. Inlays and onlays are strong and durable and can last for many years. They also provide a natural aesthetic look and feel and are custom-made to fit the individual tooth. In addition, inlays and onlays are less invasive than other types of restorations and can be used to restore even severely damaged teeth.

Conclusion

Inlay and onlay restorations are two popular methods used in dentistry to repair and restore damaged teeth. Inlays and onlays are custom-made to fit the size and shape of the individual tooth, and provide a strong and durable restoration. Inlays are used for smaller damage, while onlays are used for more significant damage.

Both inlays and onlays provide a natural look and feel and are less invasive than other types of restorations, making them a great choice for restoring damaged teeth.