Inlays & Onlays
We use inlays and onlays as alternatives to traditional dental fillings and crowns, and the bonding process can actually strengthen the tooth. At Brilliant Dental Care, Dr. Freeman and our entire team are always ready to give our patients the best treatment options to restore their oral health.
What Are Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are typically made of porcelain, composite resin, or gold. While gold was used a lot in the past, most people prefer to choose the options that can match the color of their natural teeth.
If a cavity is fairly large, we’d probably recommend an inlay over a normal filling. Due to the inlay being made equal to the exact size and shape of the empty space, there is no chance of bacteria being trapped underneath.
Onlays are meant for more substantial restorations as they cover a cusp of the tooth compared to the area between the cusps.
Are Inlays and Onlays Right for Me?
Since inlays and onlays work as great alternatives to fillings and crowns, the dentist will usually recommend one treatment over another based on your unique situation. If you have any questions regarding what would be best for you, please don’t hesitate to ask.
What Are the Benefits of Inlays and Onlays?
- Custom-made to fit your smile
- Can last for many years with proper oral hygiene
- Matches the color of your natural teeth
Are You Looking to Get Inlays and Onlays in Houston?
If you think inlays and onlays are right for you, or you’d like to hear other general dentistry recommendations from our expert dentist, contact Brilliant Dental Care today to schedule an appointment!
FAQs About Inlays And Onlays
What is the difference between an inlay and an onlay?
Inlays and onlays are both custom-made restorations used to repair damaged teeth, but they cover different areas. An inlay fits within the grooves between the cusps of a tooth, similar to a large filling but fabricated in a laboratory for a precision fit. An onlay extends over one or more cusps of the tooth, providing more substantial coverage for greater damage. Both options are ideal when a cavity is too large for a standard filling but not extensive enough to require a full crown, preserving more of your natural tooth structure.
How much do inlays and onlays cost?
Inlays and onlays typically cost between $650 and $1,200 per tooth, falling between the price of standard fillings and full crowns. The exact cost depends on the size of the restoration, materials used, and complexity of your case. Porcelain and composite resin options that match your natural tooth color cost slightly more than gold restorations. Many dental insurance plans cover inlays and onlays as restorative procedures. At Brilliant Dental Care, we provide transparent pricing and offer financing through CareCredit and our In-House Smile Advantage Plan.
How long do inlays and onlays last?
With proper oral hygiene and regular dental care, inlays and onlays can last 10 to 30 years, significantly longer than traditional composite fillings that typically need replacement every 5 to 7 years. The bonding process actually strengthens the damaged tooth, providing better durability than standard fillings. Gold restorations tend to last longest, while porcelain and composite options offer excellent longevity with the aesthetic benefit of matching your natural tooth color. Regular checkups at Brilliant Dental Care allow Dr. Freeman to monitor your restorations and address any concerns early.
What materials are used for inlays and onlays?
Inlays and onlays are typically made from porcelain, composite resin, or gold. Porcelain offers excellent aesthetics with a natural tooth-like appearance and good durability. Composite resin also matches your natural tooth color and bonds well to tooth structure. Gold provides exceptional longevity and is gentle on opposing teeth, but is less popular today due to its visible metallic appearance. At Brilliant Dental Care, most patients choose porcelain or composite options that blend seamlessly with surrounding teeth while providing strong, long-lasting restorations.
Are inlays and onlays better than fillings?
Inlays and onlays offer several advantages over traditional fillings for larger cavities. Because they are custom-made to fit precisely, they create a tighter seal that prevents bacteria from entering, reducing the risk of further decay. The bonding process strengthens the remaining tooth structure rather than weakening it, as amalgam fillings can. Inlays and onlays also last significantly longer, often two to three times the lifespan of standard fillings. However, for small cavities, traditional composite fillings remain an effective and economical choice.
