Dental Inlays & Onlays in Alliston, ON

When a tooth needs more than a filling—but not a full crown—dental inlays or onlays may be the ideal solution. These custom restorations repair and strengthen your tooth while preserving as much of its natural structure as possible. Book your consultation today to find out what’s right for you.

What Are Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations that fit into or over the chewing surface of a damaged tooth. They’re often used when a cavity is too large for a filling, or when part of the tooth is cracked or weakened but doesn’t need a full crown.

Inlays fit inside the grooves of the tooth
Onlays cover one or more cusps (the pointed parts of the tooth)

Both are crafted from durable, tooth-coloured materials like porcelain or composite resin for a seamless, natural look.

Why Choose Inlays or Onlays?

Inlays and onlays offer a stronger and longer-lasting solution than traditional fillings, especially for back teeth that handle more chewing pressure.

Benefits include:

Conserves more of your natural tooth compared to a crown
Stronger than a filling for large areas of decay or damage
Blends in naturally with surrounding teeth
Resists stains and wear
Custom-made for a perfect fit and long-term durability

When Are Inlays or Onlays Recommended?

We may recommend an inlay or onlay if:

A tooth has moderate decay that’s too large for a filling
A filling has failed or needs to be replaced
A cusp or corner of the tooth is chipped or broken
You want a metal-free, natural-looking alternative to older restorations

How to Care for Your Inlay or Onlay

With proper care, your inlay or onlay can last 10 to 15 years or more.

Here’s how to keep it in great shape:

Brush and floss daily
Avoid chewing hard objects like ice or pens
Visit us regularly for cleanings and checkups
Let us know if you clench or grind—we may recommend a night guard

What to Expect from the Procedure

Getting an inlay or onlay is a two-visit process, and we’ll make sure you feel comfortable every step of the way.

Step 1

Examination & Preparation

We start with a thorough exam and digital X-rays to assess the damage. If an inlay or onlay is the best option, we’ll gently clean and prepare the area.

Step 2

Digital Impressions

Using our iTero scanner, we take precise digital scans—no messy moulds required. These scans are sent to a dental lab to create your custom restoration.

Step 3

Temporary Protection

A temporary inlay or onlay is placed to protect your tooth while your final piece is being made.

Step 4

Final Placement

Once your permanent restoration is ready, we bond it securely to your tooth and polish it for a natural finish. You’ll leave with a stronger, healthier smile.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between a filling and an inlay or onlay?

Fillings are applied directly to the tooth in a single visit. Inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations, offering better strength and durability for larger areas of damage.