Inlays and Onlays

Inlays and Onlays in Vancouver

If your teeth are slightly damaged or decayed, there are several options your dentist may employ to restore them. While dental fillings are suitable to fill small holes in the teeth, larger areas of damage may require an inlay or onlay to restore them.

What Are Inlays and Onlays?

While fillings are created using a soft resin material that is hardened in the mouth, inlays and onlays consist of a single solid piece that is custom-made to fill the gap. Inlays are used to restore the area of the tooth between the tooth cusps, while an onlay is used to restore a single cusp.

How Do Onlays and Crowns Differ?

Onlays and crowns are both used to restore the look and function of the tooth. However, your dentist will determine which to use, depending on the extent of the damage. While onlays can restore a single cusp, larger areas of damage that include two or more cusps may require a dental crown instead.