Inlay/ Onlay

Inlays and onlays are conservative restorations for a posterior tooth (molars and premolars) when they are moderately damaged or decayed. Unlike classic fillings and crowns, they also maintain the structural integrity of the natural teeth, but increase strength and durability. Crafted from materials such as porcelain, composite resin, or gold, inlays and onlays are designed to fit over damaged areas of a tooth, outside the cusp tips. Compared to traditional fillings, they offer better aesthetics, utility, and durability, thus making them a common choice in contemporary dentistry.

The need for inlays and onlays is to repair damaged or decayed teeth, restoring their function. These are usually used when the tooth is badly damaged, but doesn't require a full dental crown. Inlays and onlays are an excellent way to protect the natural teeth and promote a more prolonged life.

Inlays and onlays work for:

• Patients with moderate tooth decay not involving the entire structure of the tooth.
• People with fractured or chipped teeth that would require structural support.
• Anyone looking for a permanent solution to regular fillings.
• Patients who need to replace old and failing filings.
• People who prioritize aesthetics, since inlays and onlays blend with natural teeth.

Restorations generally fall into two categories:

• Inlays – When the damage is only limited to the chewing surface and does not extend over the cusps of tooth.
• Onlays – Like crowns but meant to cover more of the tooth, often including one or more cusps, providing even more coverage and reinforcement.

There are different materials where these restorations can be made from:

• Porcelain/Ceramic – It is highly aesthetic and biocompatible that provides a color match for natural tooth shade.
• Composite Resin – A tooth-colored, inexpensive alternative but not as long-lasting as ceramic.
• Gold – Very strong and durable but not as popular due to the metallic look.

The process normally involves two visits to the dentist:

• Preparing the tooth and taking impressions: Dentist removes decay or damaged portions of the tooth. The tooth is prepared for the inlay or onlay. To make a custom restoration, an impression of the tooth is made. The tooth is then protected with a temporary filling while the final restoration is fabricated.
• Inlay, or Onlay Placement: The temporary filling is taken out. The inlay or onlay is then fitted and adjusted. It is cemented to the tooth with powerful dental cement. The dentist polishes it and checks your bite for comfort and accuracy.

• Strength and Durability – Considered stronger than fillings, inlays and onlays do not lose wear and tear over time.
• Aesthetic Appeal – Porcelain and composite inlays/onlays match seamlessly with natural teeth.
• Preserves Tooth Tissue – Removal of healthy enamel is kept to a minimum.
• Custom Fit – Offers a tight, accurate fit, minimizing bacterial buildup.
• Stain Resistant – Unlike regular fillings, porcelain restorations are stain-resistant.

• More conservative than crowns, preserving more tooth structure.
• Tougher and more durable than traditional restorations.
• Less chance of future infiltration and breakdown.
• Offers a better fit and seal, minimizes bacterial leakage.

Inlays and onlays are incredibly lasting, and last an average of 10 to 30 years based on:

• The materials used (gold and porcelain last longer than composite resin).
• Patient’s oral hygiene and maintenance. Habits such as grinding teeth or chewing harder foods.gy, which minimizes the entire procedure (inlay/onlay placement) to one single appointment.

The whole procedure takes about two weeks, which includes:

• First appointment: Preparation of the tooth and impression taking -  45–60 minutes.
• Second appointment: For placement and fine tuning - 35-40 minutes.

Certain dental practices have advanced to the stage where they are able to provide same-day inlays/onlays using advanced computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology, which minimizes the entire procedure (inlay/onlay placement) to one single appointment.

Inlays and onlays cost in India depends on:

• Material - Porcelain is more expensive than composite resin.
• Location of the clinic - Prices are higher in metropolitan cities.
• Dentist’s experience - More experienced professionals may have higher charges.
• Technology used - Advanced CAD/CAM restorations cost more).

Estimated Price Range:

• Composite Resin Inlay/Onlay – ₹5,000 to ₹10,000/tooth.
• Porcelain/Ceramic Inlay/Onlay – ₹8,000 to ₹20,000 per tooth.
• Gold Inlay/Onlay – ₹15,000 to ₹30,000 per tooth.

Generally safe, some risks include:

• Sensitivity to chewing following placement (temporary in most cases).
• Poor fitting.
• Break or come loose if too much pressure is applied to it.

• Pricier than traditional fillings.
• Unless CAD/CAM technology is present, it needs two visits.
• Not ideal for serious tooth decay (in which case crowns are preferable).
• Can cause wear on opposing teeth if made of harder materials such as porcelain.

Other options include:

• Dental Crowns – For extensive damage covering the tooth.
• Composite Fillings − For small cavities, or to repair a tooth.
• Silver Amalgam Fillings – Cheaper but less aesthetic.
• Dental Veneers – For cosmetic alterations but not for functional restoration.

• Practice good oral hygiene – Brush two times per day and floss regularly.
• Avoid hard and sticky foods for at least the first 24 hours.
• Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste.
• Schedule appointments every six months with your dentist.
• Use a desensitizing toothpaste if required.