The Middle Ground
Inlays & Onlays
When a filling isn't enough, but a full crown is more than you need. Inlays and onlays rebuild damaged teeth conservatively and durably.
Reviewed by our dentists — Updated April 2026
What are inlays and onlays?
Inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations designed to repair teeth with damage too large for a simple filling but too small to justify a full crown. They're sometimes called “partial crowns” because they cover the damaged portion of the tooth while leaving the healthy structure intact.
- Inlay: Fits within the grooves of the tooth, between the cusps.
- Onlay: Extends over one or more cusps (the raised points on the biting surface).
Why choose an inlay or onlay over a filling or crown?
- More durable than a large filling.Custom-made and lab-crafted, they're engineered for longevity.
- Preserves more of your natural tooth than a crown. A full crown requires removing more tooth structure — inlays and onlays are conservative by design.
- Excellent fit.Because they're custom-made to an exact impression of your tooth, they seal beautifully against decay.
- Natural appearance. Tooth-colored materials blend seamlessly with your smile.
What the appointments look like
An inlay or onlay typically takes two visits:
- First visit: We numb the tooth, remove the damaged area, and take a detailed impression. A temporary restoration is placed while your custom inlay or onlay is crafted at the lab.
- Second visit: The temporary is removed and your permanent inlay or onlay is carefully bonded in place, checked for fit and bite, and polished.
Materials we use
Your inlay or onlay is crafted from tooth-colored porcelain or composite ceramic — durable, natural-looking, and metal-free. Gold and metal options also exist; we'll talk through which makes the most sense for your case.
How long do they last?
With good oral hygiene and regular checkups, porcelain inlays and onlays can last 15 years or longer — often outperforming the large fillings they replace.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an inlay and an onlay?+
An inlay fits within the grooves of a tooth, between the cusps. An onlay extends over one or more cusps on the biting surface. Both are custom-made restorations that preserve more healthy tooth structure than a full crown.
How long do inlays and onlays last?+
With good oral hygiene and regular checkups at Roanoke Dental Center, porcelain inlays and onlays can last 15 years or longer. They often outlast the large fillings they replace.
Are inlays and onlays better than fillings?+
For larger areas of damage, yes. A standard filling can weaken a tooth when it's too large, while a custom-made inlay or onlay is engineered for durability and provides a superior seal against future decay.
How many appointments does an inlay or onlay require?+
Typically two visits. At the first, we prepare the tooth and take impressions. At the second, the permanent restoration is bonded in place, checked for fit and bite, and polished.
Do inlays and onlays look natural?+
Yes. We use tooth-colored porcelain or composite ceramic materials that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. Most people won't be able to tell you have a restoration at all.
Does getting an inlay or onlay hurt?+
We numb the area completely before starting, so you shouldn't feel any pain during the procedure. Some mild sensitivity afterward is normal and usually resolves within a few days.
★ When You're Ready
Come see for yourself.
Take your time choosing the office that fits.
Pick the Cave Spring office that's closer to you. Reserve your visit online any hour of the day, or call your front desk during clinical hours — we'd love to meet you.
Visit Electric Rd
2660 Electric Rd Suite A
Visit Brambleton Ave
4907 Brambleton Ave
Or call the front desk