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Inlays & Onlays: How It Works, Explained Simply

When a tooth is too damaged for a filling but not enough for a crown, an inlay or onlay can restore it. A large area of decay or an old filling is first removed. A fact-checked 3D patient-education video about inlays & onlays — educational only, not medical advice.

Video Transcript

When a tooth is too damaged for a filling but not enough for a crown, an inlay or onlay can restore it. A large area of decay or an old filling is first removed. An inlay fits neatly inside the grooves of the chewing surface. An onlay also covers one or more of the raised points of the tooth. The custom-made piece is bonded firmly onto the prepared tooth. It rebuilds the tooth while keeping more natural structure than a crown. The result is a strong, well-sealed tooth that blends right in. This video is for general education only. It is not medical or dental advice. Ask your dentist what's right for you.

This video is educational only and is not medical advice. Every patient is different — talk to your provider about your specific situation.

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