Dental inlays and onlays offer a less invasive option for restoring teeth compared to full crowns. They are suitable for treating rear teeth with mild to moderate decay or cracked teeth that don't require a full crown. Inlays and onlays can be made from porcelain, composite resin, or occasionally gold. Inlays are used when the bonded material is limited to the center of the tooth, while onlays extend further to cover one or more cusps of the tooth.
What are the benefits of inlays and onlays?
Inlays and onlays offer a natural tooth color, making them almost undetectable. They also provide a great fit as they do not expand or contract with temperature changes, unlike fillings. Additionally, inlays and onlays have exceptional longevity, surpassing other filling options. Moreover, they require minimal removal of the tooth's surface, preserving the maximum amount of healthy tooth structure while effectively restoring decayed or damaged areas.