Inlays & Onlays

An inlay sits inside the tooth, filling a cavity and replacing the cusped chewing surface. An onlay also covers one or more of the cusps, so it is used when a tooth is more heavily damaged. When that much of the tooth is gone, a crown is usually the stronger choice.

A filling is right for a small cavity but is not enough for a moderately damaged tooth, because it cannot replace lost tooth structure. A crown covers the whole tooth but requires removing a lot of healthy enamel. An inlay or onlay sits between the two: more durable than a filling, and far more conservative than a crown.

Usually one or two. The first appointment takes the scan or impression; the laboratory fabricates the restoration, which takes about a week; you return for fitting. A temporary restoration is generally fitted in the meantime.

A well-made inlay or onlay commonly lasts 10-20 years, depending on the material, the size of the restoration and how much load the tooth takes. Ceramic tends to outlast composite, and a larger onlay in a heavily loaded back tooth will not last as long as a small inlay.

The price depends on the material and the size of the restoration, and on whether a temporary restoration is needed in between. Published figures for other countries are on our costs page; ask the hospital for a written quote that states the material and whether laboratory fees are included.