Inlay - Onlay Resin

What are Resin Porcelain Inlays and Onlays? 

Both are indirect restorations, meaning they are fabricated outside the patient’s mouth, in a dental laboratory, after taking an impression of the tooth. They are then placed on the tooth and bonded to it. The main difference between them lies in the extent of the restoration: 

• InlayInlay): It restores the inner surface of the tooth, within the cusps and cavities, without covering the outer edges or the peaks of the tooth cusps. It is suitable for damage that does not extensively affect the external structures of the tooth. 

• OnlayOverlay): It covers not only the inner surface of the tooth but also one or more of the outer edges or the peaks of the tooth cusps. It is suitable for larger damage affecting multiple structures of the tooth. 

Fabrication and Placement: 

The process for fabricating and placing a resin inlay or onlay typically involves the following steps: 

1. Preparation of the tooth: The dentist removes the decay or the damaged part of the tooth. 
2. Taking an impression: An accurate impression is taken of the prepared tooth and the surrounding teeth. This is sent to the dental laboratory. 
3. Fabrication of the inlay/onlay: In the laboratory, the inlay or onlay is made from high-quality composite resin, precisely shaped and sized to fit the tooth. 
4. Temporary restoration: A temporary restoration is placed to protect the tooth until the permanent inlay/onlay is ready. 
5. Placement of the permanent inlay/onlay: The dentist removes the temporary restoration, checks the fit of the permanent inlay/onlay, and bonds it with special dental adhesive. 

Advantages of Resin Inlays and Onlays: 

• Aesthetics: Composite resin can be perfectly matched to the color of natural teeth, providing an excellent aesthetic result. 

• Durability: Resin inlays and onlays are more durable than traditional direct resin fillings, especially in larger restorations. 

• Application: Fabrication outside the mouth allows for a more precise fit and better contact with adjacent teeth. 

• Protection: They strengthen the tooth and protect it from further damage. 

• Alternative option: They are a good alternative to crowns in certain cases, preserving more tooth structure.