Inlays and Onlays
For a tooth that is too damaged to repair with a filling but not damaged enough to need a crown, dentists use dental inlays and onlays to restore that tooth. They could last longer than fillings and protect the remaining tooth structure better.
A dental inlay occupies in the center area of the tooth. A dental onlay is placed on the inside and outside areas to build its shape. Inlays and onlays are less aggressive and usually less expensive treatment option than crowns.
Inlays and onlays can be made from composites resins (plastic), metals such as gold or porcelain to match the tooth’s color. Different materials are specially designed for different parts of the teeth.