Porcelain Inlays-Onlays What are inlays and onlays? Inlays and onlays can be made of laboratory cast porcelain or gold. These pieces are bonded to the damaged area of the tooth. An inlay, which is similar to a filling, is used inside the cusp tips of the tooth. An onlay is similar to the inlay but extends out over one or more of the cusps of the tooth to provide more strength to weakened teeth. Inlays and onlays allow for less tooth removal than a crown while providing the same strength.     What are porcelain onlays? Inlays and onlays can be made of laboratory cast porcelain or gold. These pieces are bonded to the damaged area of the tooth. An inlay, which is similar to a filling, is used inside the cusp tips of the tooth. An onlay is similar to the inlay but extends out over one or more of the cusps of the tooth to provide more strength to weakened teeth. Inlays and onlays allow for less tooth removal than a crown while providing the same strength. Traditionally, gold has been the material of choice for inlays and onlays. In recent years, however, porcelain has become increasingly popular due to its strength and color, which can match the natural color of your teeth. How are they applied? Inlays and onlays require only two appointments to complete the procedure. During the first visit, the filling being replaced or the damaged or decaying area of the tooth is removed, and the tooth is prepared for the inlay or onlay. To ensure proper fit and bite, an impression of the tooth is made by the dentist, and sent to a laboratory for fabrication. The dentist will then apply a temporary restoration on the tooth and schedule the next appointment. At the second appointment, the temporary is removed by Dr. Bettner. He will then make sure that the inlay or onlay fits correctly. The inlay or onlay will be bonded to the tooth and polished to a smooth finish. Considerations Traditional fillings can reduce the strength of a natural tooth by up to 50 percent. As an alternative, inlays and onlays, which are bonded directly onto the tooth using special high-strength resins, can actually increase the strength of a tooth by up to 75 percent. As a result, they can last from 10 to 30 years. In some cases, where the damage to the tooth is not extensive enough to merit an entire crown, onlays can provide a very good alternative