What are inlays and onlays?
Inlays and onlays are indirect restorations: rather than being shaped directly in the mouth like a filling, they are fabricated outside the mouth from an impression and then cemented or bonded into the prepared tooth. They are sometimes called partial crowns, because they sit between a filling and a full crown in terms of how much of the tooth they cover.
- Inlay: fills the space between the raised points (cusps) on the chewing surface of a molar or premolar
- Onlay: extends over one or more cusps to reinforce weakened areas of the tooth
Common materials include ceramic and composite resin, which are tooth-colored, and gold, which is long-lasting but visible. Tooth-colored inlays and onlays are part of the aesthetic bonded restorations offered at Seoul E&D Dental Clinic in Sanbon, Gunpo.
Why choose an inlay or onlay instead of a filling or crown?
A large direct filling can shrink slightly as it hardens and may be less resistant to wear when it replaces a big portion of the tooth. Because an inlay or onlay is made outside the mouth, its shape and contacts with neighboring teeth can be controlled precisely. Compared with a full crown, an onlay usually requires removing less healthy tooth, keeping more of your natural enamel.
Who are inlays and onlays suited for?
They are often a good fit when:
- A cavity on a back tooth is too large for a standard tooth-colored filling
- An old large filling has broken or developed decay underneath
- A cusp has chipped but the rest of the tooth is sound
- You want a durable restoration while conserving natural structure
An alternative may be advised if the tooth has very little structure left, has a deep crack running toward the root, or has had root canal treatment and needs full protection. Very small cavities are usually treated more simply with a direct filling.
How we place inlays and onlays at E&D Dental
Visit one: diagnosis and preparation
- Check the tooth. The Q-ray intraoral camera and X-rays help show the extent of decay, any cracks and the condition of old fillings. We walk you through the images and explain whether treatment is needed now.
- Numb the area. The 3-step painless anesthesia system combines a topical anesthetic gel or gargle, Endo-Frost cold numbing and a computer-controlled anesthesia device, designed to reduce the discomfort of injections.
- Prepare the cavity. Decay and old filling material are removed, and the cavity is shaped so the restoration can seat securely.
- Record the shape. An impression is taken, the shade is chosen, and a temporary filling protects the tooth.
Visit two: bonding
The temporary is removed, the inlay or onlay is tried in to check fit and contacts, and it is then bonded or cemented. Finally, the bite is adjusted and the margins are polished smooth.
Recovery and aftercare
Most people can eat normally once the numbness wears off. Mild sensitivity to cold or biting pressure for a few days is common. While the temporary filling is in place, avoid sticky or very hard food on that side.
Long-term care is straightforward:
- Brush and clean between teeth daily, paying attention to the edges of the restoration
- Avoid using your teeth to open packages or crack nuts
- Protect restorations with a guard if you grind, and consider teeth grinding treatment if grinding is severe
- Return for regular check-ups so the margins can be examined
Risks and limitations
Inlays and onlays require two visits and are typically more costly than direct fillings. Ceramic restorations can fracture under very heavy force, and the bonding procedure is sensitive to moisture. Decay can still develop at the margins if plaque is not removed. If the nerve was already inflamed, root canal treatment may be needed later. No restoration lasts indefinitely, and replacement may eventually be necessary.
Why patients in Sanbon and Gunpo choose E&D Dental
- A conservative philosophy that aims to keep as much natural tooth as possible
- Clear explanations of the differences between fillings, inlays, onlays and crowns
- Patient-friendly anesthesia for those who are nervous about injections
- Located about 5 minutes on foot from Sanbon Station (Line 4), open Monday and Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings
International residents can ask about arranging English communication when booking. To have a broken filling or large cavity checked, book an appointment with our Sanbon team.