What Do Inlays and Onlays Do?

Inlays and onlays are a form of maintenance. They are necessary when dental fillings start to age, or when the structural integrity of a tooth becomes compromised. 

Unlike crowns, inlays and onlays do not require modification of existing tooth structure. They act as a kind of indirect filling, since the materials are put together offsite in the lab and put in place at a second session.

The dentist only places the new addition after making sure it does not interfere with the bite. This procedure is meant both to preserve natural function, and, since inlays and onlays do not discolor easily, improve overall appearance.

Because they are made to order, inlays and onlays tend to fit better than direct fillings, which may extend or contract over time. In addition to being more resistant to stains, inlays and onlays are made from ingredients that are simply stronger than those found in fillings. After the install, the affected teeth will be as much as 75 percent stronger.

An inlay only fills the space between the cusp tips, or top edges, of the tooth. An outlay extends over the cusps, covering the entire tooth.

Ask one of our Los Angeles dentists for more information about this minimal-prep technique.