Versus a filling
Stronger, and better where the cavity is wide.
In one paragraph
What it is.
When a back tooth is too damaged for a filling but not damaged enough to justify cutting it down for a crown, an inlay or onlay is the middle answer: a custom-made porcelain piece bonded into or over the damaged part.
An inlay sits within the cusps; an onlay covers one or more of them. Both preserve considerably more natural tooth than a crown.
The specifics.
Versus a crown
Keeps far more of your own tooth.
Material
Porcelain, bonded. Shade-matched.
Scanned
Digital scan rather than an impression tray.
Two visits
Preparation and a temporary, then bonding the final piece.
Suits
Large old fillings that keep failing on back teeth.
Money
What it costs.
You get an itemised written estimate before anything starts. We bill your insurance directly, so you usually pay only your own portion on the day, and the Canadian Dental Care Plan is accepted. In-house financing is available through PaySpyre, so treatment can be paid for over time.
Questions.
What is the difference between an inlay and an onlay?
An inlay fits inside the biting surface between the cusps. An onlay extends over one or more cusps. The choice depends on how much of the tooth is damaged.
Why not just have a crown?
A crown requires cutting the tooth down all round. If enough sound tooth remains, an onlay preserves it and is the more conservative option.
How long do they last?
Bonded porcelain restorations commonly last well over a decade.
Are they more expensive than a filling?
Yes, because they are custom made in a lab and take two appointments. They also last considerably longer in large cavities.