Onlays repair teeth that have been damaged. This can be due to decay, cracks, gaps and chips. Some people even get onlays to fix tooth discoloration. Onlays are typically recommended when a tooth has sustained a great deal of damage and would likely crack if the patient receives a regular dental filling.

Are dental onlays necessary?

Dental onlays and inlays are necessary to remedy damaged rear teeth that are not in bad enough shape to need a crown. These oral health restorations are primarily used to correct fractured, cracked or decayed teeth when the damage is mild or moderate.

Are onlays better than fillings?

An inlay is a restoration that repairs the top portion of a tooth, and an onlay replaces the cusp of a tooth. They offer many advantages over tooth-colored fillings since they are stronger, more durable, and more stain resistant.