What Are Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are custom-made dental restorations designed to repair teeth that are too damaged for a simple filling but do not require a full dental crown. At our dental practice in Wilmington, DE, we offer high-quality inlays and onlays crafted from porcelain, composite resin, or gold and bonded securely to the tooth. They provide a natural-looking, long-lasting solution while preserving as much of your healthy tooth structure as possible.

  • Inlays fit inside the grooves of the tooth between the cusps. They are ideal for repairing small to moderate decay without extending over the edges.
  • Onlays cover one or more cusps in addition to the grooves. They are used when additional strength and coverage are needed due to more extensive damage.

These restorations blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, offering both strength and esthetic appeal. Compared to traditional fillings, inlays and onlays also form a tighter seal, reducing the chance of recurrent decay and protecting your tooth long-term.

Why Material Matters

We offer inlays and onlays in a variety of materials, each suited to different needs:

  • Porcelain: Matches your tooth color for the most natural appearance.
  • Gold: Known for its durability and ideal for back molars under heavy pressure.
  • Composite Resin: Offers a tooth-colored option at a lower cost than porcelain.

During your consultation, we’ll help you choose the material that best fits your clinical needs, cosmetic goals, and lifestyle.

Who Is a Candidate?

You may be a good candidate for an inlay or onlay if you have:

  • Moderate tooth decay or structural damage
  • A broken or cracked filling
  • Enough healthy tooth structure remaining to avoid a crown

These conservative dental treatments are ideal for patients seeking to preserve as much of their natural tooth as possible while addressing existing damage.

The Inlay and Onlay Procedure

Much like our other family dentistry treatments, the process begins with cleaning the tooth. Using a dental drill or advanced air abrasion, we remove any decay or weakened structure while preserving healthy enamel. In contrast to some traditional fillings or crowns, this minimally invasive approach removes only what’s necessary.

Next, we take digital impressions using a handheld wand that captures precise 3D images of your bite. This technology allows us to design an inlay or onlay that fits your tooth exactly. We then fabricate your custom restoration—often in-house—for a perfect fit and natural look.

Finally, the inlay or onlay is securely bonded to your tooth, restoring both function and appearance with long-lasting results.

What to Expect After Treatment

Most patients experience little to no discomfort after the procedure and can return to regular activities the same day. Minor sensitivity to temperature or pressure may occur but typically subsides within a few days. Our goal is to restore your smile with comfort, precision, and minimal interruption to your daily life.

Caring for Your Inlays and Onlays

Maintaining your inlays and onlays is simple. Brush at least twice a day, floss daily, and use a fluoride rinse to support enamel health. Even with great at-home care, it’s important to visit your dentist every six months for professional cleanings and exams. These checkups help keep your restorations—and your entire smile—in excellent condition.

When a Crown May Be a Better Fit

While inlays and onlays are conservative options, there are cases where a dental crown provides the best protection. A crown may be recommended if:

  • The tooth has undergone root canal therapy
  • Decay or damage affects most of the tooth
  • The tooth is fractured or structurally weak
  • A large, worn-out filling has compromised tooth integrity

A crown covers the entire visible portion of the tooth, offering full reinforcement when inlays and onlays aren’t sufficient.

Your dentist will assess the extent of tooth damage or decay. Inlays are ideal for smaller areas, onlays for larger surfaces including cusps, and crowns for full coverage when a tooth is severely weakened.

While uncommon, they can come loose due to trauma, excessive grinding, or decay around the restoration. If this happens, contact your dentist promptly to prevent further damage.

Yes. Porcelain and composite inlays and onlays are custom-matched to the color of your natural teeth, blending in seamlessly for an esthetic, natural look.

Most patients return to normal activities the same day. You may experience mild sensitivity to hot or cold, which typically fades within a few days.

Yes, inlays and onlays can be chosen for their durability and natural appearance, especially when a filling may not offer enough structural support or visual appeal.

Your Trusted Wilmington Dentist for Restorations

At our Wilmington, DE dental practice, we’re committed to providing high-quality, minimally invasive care. When you choose us for your inlay or onlay treatment, you can trust that we will only recommend procedures truly in your best interest.

Let us help you preserve your natural teeth with precise, durable, and beautiful restorations. Call us at (302) 994-0979 today to schedule your appointment!