Dental Inlay/onlays are reserved for situations involving
larger cavities with greater loss of healthy tooth structure.
An inlay is recommended when a cavity is too large to be
restored with a filling
Onlays are slightly more extensive than inlays and are
recommended when the desired restoration involves the cusp of a tooth.
With a filling, a composite material is used to fill the
space of the cavity. However, in inlay/onlay, the space is filled with a single, solid piece that is usually fabricated
in a lab.
What are Inlays/onlays made of?
Inlays/onlays are usually made in a lab and can be made in porcelain, gold, or metal. Porcelain inlays have the longest lifespan and are in the middle in terms of cost. Gold inlays also have a long lifespan, but they’re far more expensive than porcelain inlays. On the other hand, metal inlays are less expensive than porcelain or gold inlays and can be a good option in cases where you want to use inlays but don’t have the money for porcelain or gold inlays.
Inlay/Onlay vs Dental filling
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Inlays/Onlays are precisely casted to fit the
shape and size of the cavity, So accuracy of fit is higher and marginal adaption
is very good. This prevents any seepage between the restoration-tooth borders,
elimination the chances of future decay.
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Inlay/Onlays are tougher and more durable and
therefore longer lasting.
Onlay vs Crown
Onlay is a slightly more conservative restoration
compared to a crown as it involves less removal of tooth structure.
The fabrication on an onlay is technically more demanding
and requires a high degree of skill.
Case selection for an onlay is important as it may be
deciding factor in the success/failure of a restoration.
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