Inlays and Onlays in North York
Sometimes a tooth needs more than a filling but less than a crown. Inlays and onlays sit in between, repairing damage while saving more of your natural tooth.
Inlays and onlays in North York at Emerald Forest Dental are custom-made pieces, usually porcelain or composite, that are bonded into a damaged back tooth. An inlay fills the grooves between the cusps. An onlay also covers one or more cusps. They suit teeth too damaged for a regular filling that still have enough structure to avoid a full crown.
- Typical time
- Usually two visits, or one if made chairside
- Who it's for
- People with large cavities, broken cusps or failing old fillings in back teeth
- Coverage
- Often partly covered; some plans pay them like a filling or crown, so check your plan
- Recovery
- Mild sensitivity for a few days
About inlays and onlays
Your back teeth have raised points called cusps that do most of the grinding when you chew. When a large cavity or an old filling weakens the walls between those cusps, a regular filling may not be strong enough. A crown would cover the whole tooth, but that means removing healthy enamel from every side. Inlays and onlays offer a middle path.
An inlay is like a custom puzzle piece that fits inside the chewing surface, between the cusps. An onlay is larger and extends over one or more cusps to protect them. Some people call an onlay a partial crown. Both are made outside the mouth, usually from porcelain, composite resin or, less often, gold, and then bonded firmly to the tooth.
Because they are made in one solid piece, inlays and onlays tend to fit closely and resist wear. Bonding them to the tooth can help support weakened walls. The main trade-offs are that they usually need two visits and cost more than a direct filling. Your dentist will look at how much healthy tooth remains and how you bite before suggesting one.
An inlay or onlay may suit you if
- You have a large old filling that is breaking down
- A cusp on a back tooth has chipped or broken off
- A cavity is too wide for a filling to support the tooth well
- Your dentist has suggested a crown, and you want to know about more conservative options
- You have a crack line that has not reached the root
Benefits
- Saves more natural tooth than a full crown
- Custom-made for a close fit
- Tooth-coloured materials can match your enamel
- Strong and resistant to wear on chewing surfaces
What to expect
- Exam and planningYour dentist checks the tooth with an exam and X-rays and explains whether an inlay, onlay or crown suits it.
- Prepare the toothAfter freezing, the decay and old filling are removed and the tooth is shaped to hold the restoration.
- Impression or scanA mould or scan is taken so the inlay or onlay can be made to match your tooth exactly.
- Temporary coverA temporary filling protects the tooth while your final piece is made.
- Bond in placeYour dentist checks the fit and bite, bonds the restoration to the tooth and polishes the edges.
Aftercare
- Avoid sticky or very hard foods on the temporary filling until your final restoration is bonded.
- Some sensitivity to cold is common for a few days; tell us if it lasts or your bite feels uneven.
- Floss around the edges each day and keep your regular cleanings.
Other options
For a smaller cavity, a tooth-coloured filling placed in one visit may be enough. If the tooth has very little healthy structure left or a deep crack, a crown may protect it better. Your dentist will explain where your tooth falls on that range.
Cost and coverage
Inlay and onlay fees depend on the material, the size of the restoration and the lab or milling work involved. Ontario dentists often refer to the ODA suggested fee guide. Insurance plans vary in how they classify these restorations, so we can send a pre-treatment estimate to your insurer before you decide. If you are covered by CDCP, please ask us whether it applies. LendCare payment plans are also available.
Our promise: we confirm your coverage and explain the cost before treatment.
Your dental team
Dr. Hamed Jannati, DDS
General Dentist
Dr. Ye Zhang, DDS
General Dentist
Dr. Kasra Badii, DDS
General Dentist
Treatment is provided by our dentists. Dr. Ardeshir Ranjbari is a registered specialist in periodontics; our other dentists are general dentists. Some complex cases may be referred to a specialist.
Inlays and Onlays FAQ
What is the difference between an inlay and an onlay?
An inlay sits inside the chewing surface between the cusps. An onlay covers one or more cusps as well. Your dentist chooses based on how much of the tooth is damaged.
Is an onlay better than a crown?
Neither is better in every case. An onlay saves more natural tooth, while a crown covers and protects the whole tooth. Your dentist will recommend one based on cracks, remaining structure and your bite.
How long do inlays and onlays last?
They can last many years with good care. Grinding, new decay at the edges and chewing very hard things can shorten their life. A night guard may help if you grind.
Will my tooth feel different afterward?
Most people adjust quickly. The restoration is shaped to your bite, and your dentist can smooth any high spots. Call us if anything feels off after a few days.
Can an old silver filling be replaced with an onlay?
Often, yes, if the filling is failing or the tooth around it is cracking. Your dentist will check whether an onlay, a new filling or a crown is the right choice.
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Inlays and Onlays near you
We see patients from across North York and nearby areas, including North York, Don Mills, Parkway Forest, Henry Farm, Willowdale, Scarborough, Richmond Hill, Markham.
This page is general information and is not a substitute for an exam. Your dentist will recommend what's right for you. Reviewed by: Dr. Hamed Jannati, DDS. Last updated 2026-10-26.
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