Q And A: Dental Inlays Vs Onlays

There are a variety of dental treatments available today. Sometimes different dentists offer different treatments and sometimes they perform their treatments with different dental materials. Wager Evans Dental is one of a relatively small number of dental practices that offer inlays and onlays as dental treatment options. What are inlays and onlays? What is the difference between them? Inlays and onlays are dental restorations used as conservative alternatives to full dental crowns. Learn more about dental inlays vs. onlays in the Q and A below.

Q and A: 

Q1: What are inlays and onlays?

A1: Inlays and onlays are also known as indirect fillings. Used in place of traditional dental fillings to treat tooth decay or other structural damage, the difference between dental fillings and inlays/onlays is that dental fillings are directly placed in-office while inlays/onlays are fabricated in a dental lab then bonded in place during a follow-up office visit.

Q2: What is the difference between an inlay and an onlay?

A2: When the extent of structural damage includes one or more cusps (the points on your molars) or full coverage of the biting surface, the restoration is called an onlay. When the restoration is bonded in the center of the tooth only, it is considered an inlay.

Q3: Why an inlay or onlay rather than a traditional dental filling?

A3:  There are several reasons to choose an inlay or onlay rather than a traditional dental filling. One of the major reasons is because it is a more conservative procedure that saves as much of the remaining healthy tooth structure as possible. Other reasons include providing a better fit, porcelain inlays/onlays won’t stain as easily as composite resin fillings, and they restore the strength and stability of the original tooth.

About Your Reno Dentists

Dr. William Wager, Dr. Brian Evans, and our highly experienced team at Wager Evans Dental are devoted to our patients and their families, and dedicated to providing first-rate dental care in a comfortable, inviting environment. Located in Reno, we proudly welcome residents from Spanish Springs, Sparks, Incline Village, Dayton, Fernley, and all surrounding communities. To schedule a consultation or your next dental appointment, visit our office, or contact us today by calling (775) 800-4845.

About The Author

Dr. Brian Evans

Dr. Brian Evans, the current owner of Wager Evans Dental, initially worked as a CPA before transitioning to dentistry to make a greater impact on people's lives. He joined his father-in-law to expand a three-decade-long legacy in the northern Nevada community, eventually taking over the practice. Dr. Evans prioritizes a comfortable environment for his patients and stays at the forefront of dental technology and medical techniques through continuous education and advanced training, focusing on oral and systemic health.

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