Inlays and onlays are used to replace your silver fillings. These restorations are usually made from composite resin material, porcelain, or gold. Once placed, they are virtually undetectable in the mouth, and they conserve much of your natural tooth structure.

For an inlay to be successful, it is best if the cavity involves only the occlusal surface (chewing surface) and one proximal surface (surface in between the teeth). The other proximal surface should be free of decay.

An onlay, which is similar to an inlay, covers the entire proximal surface and protects the cusps from fracture. Treatment involves isolation of the tooth and removal of the old fillings under local anesthesia. Once your dentist makes an impression, the inlay/onlay is created from porcelain, gold, or composite resin material. The inlay/onlay is then cemented securely into place. Inlays and onlays usually take 2 to 3 appointments to complete. The onlay is the best alternative for covering larger surface restorations. An inlay/onlay looks exactly like the rest of the tooth, and is so durable that it doesn't need to be replaced for years.

What are the most common benefits of this procedure?

Inlays and onlays are ways of repairing relatively extensive tooth decay or damage without having to replace the whole outer portion of the tooth as with a crown. Less tooth material is removed so inlays and onlays tend to be more conservative and esthetic than crowns. Unlike fillings, these procedures strengthen a tooth's structure. They also tend to last longer than a filling, because the inlay or onlay material is custom made and bonded to the tooth.