Inlays and onlays, sometimes referred to as indirect fillings or partial crowns, are restorations designed to repair damage to the tooth’s biting surface. Crafted from a variety of materials, such as porcelain, gold, and composite resin, inlays and onlays are made from molds of your smile and then permanently cemented into place. They are placed after decay has been removed and the tooth has been cleaned. Both work in similar fashion; the difference is found in what portion of the tooth is repaired.
Inlays are fitted within the cusps of the tooth, or the inner tooth surface. Onlays are larger and extend past the cusps. The main advantage to inlays and onlays is that less of your tooth structure is removed during placement. Our dentist, Dr. Christina Sehy VerSchave, and our team believe that preserving as much of your original tooth as we can helps to promote the health of your entire smile. Inlays and onlays are ideal for damage that requires more than a dental filling but does not necessitate a dental crown. If you have any questions about our services, please contact us today at (303) 935-3574.