Inlay and onlay – What are they?

“Inlay” and “onlay” are two different types of porcelain inserts. They are used when a tooth
is moderately damaged by caries or other factors, but not enough to put a crown.
Inlay.This is a porcelain insert that is cemented inside the filling area of the tooth. It is an
aesthetic and functional replacement for the damaged part of the tooth.
Onlay on the other hand, covers not only the filling area, but also part of the chewing
surface and the wall of the tooth. This type of insert is larger and is used when the damage
is slightly more extensive.
Advantages of porcelain inlays:
1. Aesthetics. Porcelain inlays/onlays are individually adapted to match the color and shape
of the natural teeth, thus providing an aesthetic solution.
2. Durability. Porcelain inlays/onlays are made of strong material and when properly cared
can last for many years.
3. Preservation of natural tooth structure. One of the biggest advantages is that these inserts
allow the preservation of more of the natural tooth structure compared to traditional
treatments.
Porcelain inserts, both inlays and onlays, represent an advanced approach to dentistry that
combines functionality with aesthetics. By choosing this type of treatment, patients can
enjoy a long-lasting solution that gives them back a healthy and beautiful smile. It is
important to maintain regular dental visits and good oral hygiene to ensure that the
porcelain inlays/onlays remain in optimal condition over time.