Frequently Asked Questions

What can you tell me about dental "onlays". They substitue for silver or plastic fillings and resemble the appearance of porcelin. Do they stand up over time and what are the risks or downsides to restoring a decayed tooth with them assuming there is enough tooth left for the onlay to attach to.

There are two terms that are often confused, inlay and onlay. An inlay is a porcelain or gold restoration that fits totally inside the cusps of the tooth. When recommended, this is a substitute for a filling. An onlay is used to replace a cusp(s) of a tooth and is very similar to a crown. An onlay is not a substitute for a filling. Fillings, inlays and onlays all have a similar lifespan if properly cared for. You should discuss which remedy is best for your situation with your dentist.

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