Inlays and Onlays

Inlays and Onlays

At Vinciguerra & Mathew Dentistry, we may recommend inlays instead of traditional fillings when a small portion of tooth structure has been lost to decay. Similar to fillings, inlays are designed to fit neatly within the cusps, the raised points along the edges of your tooth. While in the past inlays were typically made of gold, today’s advanced materials and technology allow us to create natural-looking, durable restorations that blend seamlessly with your smile.

Conservative restoration for a damaged tooth

Frequently Asked Questions About Inlays and Onlays

Modern dental inlays are designed to blend in with your natural teeth. They are usually made from tooth-colored ceramic, porcelain, or a special composite material. If you have older metal fillings that stand out, they can be replaced with inlays that match your teeth for a more natural look.

The inlay is carefully bonded to your tooth, which not only makes it look seamless but also strengthens the tooth and helps protect it from future damage.

Dental onlays are similar to inlays, but they also cover part of the chewing surface of your tooth to replace one or more cusps. In the past, onlays were usually made of gold, but today most patients prefer tooth-colored ceramic or porcelain onlays that blend in naturally. These materials bond securely to your tooth, strengthening it and helping protect it from further damage.

One of the main advantages of inlays and onlays is that they preserve more of your natural tooth compared to a crown, which requires more enamel to be removed. Depending on your situation, we may recommend a filling, crown, inlay, or onlay to restore your tooth in the most effective way.

We’re proud to serve patients from New Hyde Park and the surrounding communities, and we’ll help you find the treatment option that best fits your needs.

Learn how inlays and onlays compare with same-day crowns and other restorative dentistry treatments.