When tooth damage isn’t severe enough for a crown, your dentist might recommend inlays or onlays. Inlays replace damaged tooth material within the cusps, while Onlays cover one or more cusps and extend over the sides of the tooth.
By preserving most of your natural tooth structure, these custom-made restorations provide excellent middle-ground solutions in 2025. But what exactly sets these treatments apart? How to identify the right one that suits your situation?
Experts at Your Healthy Smile break it down so you are better prepared before your next dentist appointment.
What Are Inlays?
Inlays replace damaged tooth material within the cusps (the raised points) of your tooth. Think of them as sophisticated fillings that:
- Fit precisely within the grooves between tooth cusps.
- Don’t cover any cusps of the tooth.
- Restore chewing function without removing excessive tooth structure.
Typically made from porcelain, ceramic, or composite resin, inlays match your natural tooth colour whilst providing exceptional durability and strength.
When Do You Need an Inlay?
If your tooth has decay or damage in the centre, but the outer edges are still intact, an inlay is ideal. It’s typically used on molars or premolars. Think of them like patching a pothole without affecting the road’s edges. The benefits of inlay include:
- Highly durable (more than traditional fillings).
- Preserves more of your natural tooth.
- Less shrinkage over time.
In short, inlays provide a snug, strong fit for smaller structural issues.
What Are Onlays?
Onlays cover one or more cusps and extend over the sides of the tooth. Sometimes called “partial crowns” they:
- Replace more substantial damage than inlays.
- Cover at least one cusp.
- Preserve more natural tooth structure than full crowns.
Like inlays, onlays are crafted from tooth-coloured materials that blend seamlessly with your smile.
When Do You Need an Onlay?
An onlay steps in when there’s more extensive damage that reaches one or more of the cusps. It doesn’t just fill the inside—it caps and protects the biting surface. Imagine a cracked corner on a tiled surface. An onlay would be the full tile replacement, maintaining stability and aesthetics. Benefits are many, an onlay:
- Covers larger damaged areas.
- Reinforces the tooth structure.
- Prevents future fractures.
It’s often called a “partial crown” because it offers similar protection without the invasiveness of a full crown.
Inlay vs Onlay: Which is Right for You?
Our experts at Your Healthy Smile clinic help to simplify the choice:
| Criteria | Inlay | Onlay |
| Damage Area | Inside the tooth only. | Covers one or more cusps |
| Coverage Area | Covers the chewing surface between cusps, excluding the cusps. | Covers the chewing surface and one or more cusps. |
| Tooth Preservation | Minimal loss of structure, as it avoids cusps. | May need more preparation due to cusp coverage, but less than crowns. |
| Use Case | Ideal for smaller cavities and preserving tooth structure. | Suitable for damage including cusps, and protecting weakened areas. |
| Strength Needed | Moderate | High |
| Aesthetic Match | Excellent | Excellent |
| Durability | Strong and durable, especially with gold or ceramic, for moderate stress. | Offers excellent durability, handling higher stress due to cusp coverage. |
| Cost | Relatively Less | Slightly more |
Both options are less invasive than crowns and stronger than fillings. It’d be important to note that both dental inlays and onlays can be made from materials such as porcelain, composite resin and gold.
A dentist appointment will help determine the right fit based on your bite force, tooth location, and personal preference.
Benefits You Shouldn’t Overlook
With the Australian Dental Association encouraging conservative treatment approaches, inlays and onlays have become a go-to option in 2025.
They’re especially popular among patients who want to maintain natural teeth for a longer period, avoid large fillings and prefer aesthetic-friendly restorations. The benefits are:
- Long-term value: They last longer than traditional fillings—often 10–30 years.
- Natural aesthetics: Especially with porcelain, the colour match is seamless.
- Less invasive: Compared to crowns, they require less trimming of your tooth.
- Tooth preservation: Protect your natural smile for longer.
10/10 Smiles with Us
In the world of restorative dentistry, inlay vs onlay might sound technical—but the decision is simpler than you think. It all comes down to the size and location of the damage, your personal dental goals, and your dentist’s recommendation.
Still unsure? Book your dentist appointment at Your Healthy Smile Dental Clinic. Our experienced team combines experience with precision to guide you toward the most suitable solution.
Know why we rank in top local searches for the best dentist near me in Australia.
FAQs
1. How long do inlays last?
They typically last 10 to 30 years, depending on oral hygiene, diet, and regular dental check-ups.
2. Can inlays fall out?
Yes, though uncommon. Improper bonding, decay underneath, or excessive wear can cause them to loosen or fall out.
3. Are inlays permanent?
They are long-lasting but not permanent. Over time, wear and tear or tooth changes may require repair or replacement.
4. How do you clean inlays?
Brush twice daily, floss carefully around the restoration, and attend regular dental cleanings to keep them in optimal condition.
5. Are inlays and onlays better than fillings?
They’re stronger and more durable for moderate damage, especially when more structural support is needed than a basic filling provides.
6. Can I eat normally after getting an inlay?
Yes, once set. Inlays and onlays restore full chewing function. After your dentist appointment, follow advice from the best dentist near me for best results.