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Dental Inlays & Onlays In Ottawa
Is a Filling No Longer Enough?
When a tooth has too much damage or decay for a filling to repair properly, but not enough to warrant a full crown, an inlay or onlay is often the ideal solution. These custom-made restorations are crafted in a dental lab to fit your tooth precisely, offering better durability, a closer seal, and a more natural appearance than a standard filling. At Inova Dental, we offer porcelain and gold inlays and onlays at both of our Ottawa locations.
What Are Dental Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are indirect restorations, meaning they are custom-made outside the mouth in a dental laboratory and then bonded to the tooth at a second appointment. They sit between a filling and a full crown in terms of coverage and are used when the damage to a tooth is too extensive for a filling but does not require capping the entire tooth.
The key difference between the two is the area of the tooth they cover:
- Inlay: Fits within the cusps of the tooth, restoring the chewing surface between the natural protrusions. Used when damage does not extend to the cusps.
- Onlay: Covers one or more cusps of the tooth, or the entire biting surface. Used when damage extends to the cusp tips or surrounding areas. Onlays are sometimes referred to as partial crowns.
Both restorations are made to match the colour and contour of your natural teeth, making them virtually indistinguishable once bonded in place.
When Would You Need an Inlay or Onlay?
Your dentist may recommend an inlay or onlay if you have:
- A cavity too large for a conventional filling
- A cracked or fractured tooth that does not require a full crown
- A worn-down tooth from bruxism or grinding
- A broken or failing old filling that needs replacing
- Decay that has been left untreated and has expanded beyond what a filling can address
If a tooth can still be saved but a standard filling would leave it structurally vulnerable, an inlay or onlay is often the most conservative and effective option.
Inlay or Onlay vs. Filling vs. Crown
vs. Filling
Traditional fillings are placed directly in the mouth in a single visit. They are effective for smaller cavities but can shrink slightly over time, leaving microscopic gaps where bacteria can re-enter. Inlays and onlays are fabricated in a lab to fit precisely, forming a tighter seal and offering significantly better protection against recurring decay. They are also more durable and longer lasting than composite or amalgam fillings.
vs. Crown
A crown caps the entire tooth and is used when damage is extensive or the tooth is structurally compromised. An onlay is a more conservative option that preserves more of the natural tooth structure by only covering the damaged portion. When enough healthy tooth remains, an onlay is preferable to a crown.
Materials Used for Inlays and Onlays
Porcelain
Porcelain inlays and onlays are the most popular choice for visible teeth. They are colour-matched to your surrounding teeth for a completely natural appearance and are highly resistant to staining. Porcelain is an excellent option for patients who prioritise aesthetics.
Gold
Gold inlays and onlays are extremely durable, rarely chip or break, and are gentle on opposing teeth. They are an excellent long-term choice for back molars where strength is more important than appearance. Gold restorations can last decades with proper care.
Composite Resin
Composite inlays and onlays offer a tooth-coloured result at a more affordable price point than porcelain. They are a good option for patients looking for an aesthetic restoration with a lower upfront cost, though they are generally not as durable as porcelain or gold.
The Inlay and Onlay Process at Inova Dental
Consultation and Preparation
We begin by assessing the tooth and confirming that an inlay or onlay is the right restoration for your situation. Local anesthetic is applied to ensure you are comfortable. The damaged or decayed portion of the tooth is carefully removed and the area is cleaned and shaped to receive the restoration.
Impressions and Temporary Cover
An impression of the prepared tooth is taken and sent to the dental lab where your custom inlay or onlay is fabricated to fit precisely. A temporary cover is placed over the tooth to protect it while your restoration is being made. Fabrication typically takes two to three weeks.
Fitting and Bonding
At your second appointment, the temporary cover is removed and the tooth surface is cleaned. Your inlay or onlay is checked for fit, shape, and colour before being permanently cemented into place. Final adjustments are made to ensure your bite feels natural and comfortable.
How Much Do Inlays and Onlays Cost in Ottawa?
Based on the Ontario Dental Association fee guide, porcelain inlays in Ottawa typically range from $763 to $1,098 and onlays around $1,417 per tooth. Gold restorations are in a similar range. The final cost depends on the material chosen, the size of the restoration, and the complexity of the case.
Inlays and onlays are considered major restorative procedures and may be partially covered by your dental insurance plan. They are not covered under the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP). We walk you through pricing transparently at your consultation with no surprises and no hidden fees, and we offer direct billing to most major insurance providers.
Why Choose Inova Dental for Inlays and Onlays in Ottawa?
- Conservative Approach: We always recommend the most tooth-preserving option. If an inlay or onlay can do the job, we won’t push for a crown.
- Custom Lab Restorations: Every inlay and onlay is fabricated to match your tooth precisely in shape, size, and colour.
- Modern Technology: Digital impressions and precise colour matching ensure a natural-looking, well-fitting result.
- Multilingual Team: Our staff speaks English, French, and Arabic, so nothing gets lost in translation.
- Two Convenient Ottawa Locations: Visit us on Innes Road or Bank Street, Monday through Saturday.
Dental Inlays & Onlays FAQs
What is the difference between an inlay and an onlay?
An inlay restores the chewing surface between the cusps of the tooth and is used when damage does not extend to the cusp tips. An onlay covers one or more cusps and is used when damage is more extensive. Both are custom-made in a dental lab and bonded permanently to the tooth.
Are inlays and onlays better than fillings?
For larger areas of damage, yes. Inlays and onlays are fabricated to fit your tooth precisely, forming a tighter seal than a conventional filling and offering better protection against recurring decay. They are also more durable and longer lasting than composite or amalgam fillings.
How long do inlays and onlays last?
With proper care, porcelain inlays and onlays typically last 10 to 15 years or longer. Gold restorations can last decades. Regular checkups, good oral hygiene, and avoiding habits like chewing ice or grinding will extend their lifespan considerably.
Does the procedure hurt?
No. Local anesthetic is used during the preparation appointment so you should feel little to no discomfort. Some mild sensitivity around the tooth is normal in the days following the procedure and typically settles on its own.
How many appointments are needed?
The process involves two appointments. The first is for preparation and impressions. The second, usually two to three weeks later, is for fitting and permanently bonding the restoration.
Are inlays and onlays covered by insurance?
Inlays and onlays are classified as major restorative procedures and may be partially covered by your dental insurance plan. Coverage varies by plan. Our team offers direct billing and will help you understand and maximise your benefits before treatment begins.
Inlay or onlay vs. crown: how do I know which I need?
If enough healthy tooth structure remains, an inlay or onlay is the more conservative option as it preserves more of the natural tooth. A crown is needed when damage is more extensive and the tooth requires full coverage for structural support. We will always recommend the most tooth-preserving option that still addresses the problem properly.
Ready to Restore Your Tooth?
Whether you need an inlay, an onlay, or are simply not sure what your tooth needs, our team at Inova Dental is here to help. We’re welcoming new patients at both of our Ottawa locations.