Inlays and onlays are tooth-colored restorations made to fit a damaged back tooth exactly. They repair more than a filling can, and they keep more of your natural tooth than a crown. At Dentistry on Park, we do them the same day.
Your comfort comes first. You are numbed, we go at your pace, and you leave with your final restoration in one visit. Dr. Daniil Payziyev will tell you honestly whether an inlay, an onlay or a crown is right for your tooth.
Inlay, onlay or crown?
Inlay
Fits inside the grooves of a back tooth, between the chewing points. For a cavity or damage too large for a regular filling.
Onlay
Also covers one or more of the chewing points. Protects a larger damaged area while keeping more of the natural tooth.
Crown
Covers the whole tooth. Used when too little healthy tooth remains to support an inlay or onlay.
Same day onlays and inlays
You come in, we prepare the tooth, and you leave with your final tooth-colored restoration in one visit. No temporary to wear and no second appointment.
How it works
Exam
We examine the tooth and take an X-ray to see how much healthy tooth is left.
Comfort
We numb the area so you feel no pain, and we pause whenever you ask.
Prepare
We remove the damage and shape the tooth to receive your restoration.
Place
Your tooth-colored restoration is fitted, bonded and polished, and we check your bite.
Common questions
Most asked questions
What is a dental inlay?
An inlay is a custom-made restoration that fits inside the grooves of a back tooth, between the cusps. It repairs a cavity or damage too big for a regular filling.
What is a dental onlay?
An onlay is similar, but it also covers one or more of the chewing points (cusps). It protects a larger damaged area while keeping more natural tooth than a crown.
What is the difference between an inlay and an onlay?
An inlay sits within the cusps. An onlay extends over one or more cusps. Which one you need depends on how much of the tooth is damaged.
What is the difference between an onlay and a crown?
A crown covers the entire tooth. An onlay covers only the damaged part, so more of your natural tooth stays. Onlays are often called partial crowns.
What is the difference between an onlay and a filling?
A filling is placed directly in the tooth in one step. An onlay is made outside the mouth and bonded in. It is stronger and better for larger repairs.
When do I need an inlay or onlay?
When a tooth has a cavity or crack too large for a regular filling, but is not damaged enough to need a full crown.
How long do onlays and inlays last?
Often 10 to 20 years or more with good care.
Does getting an onlay hurt?
You are numbed, so you should feel no pain during treatment. Your comfort comes first. Mild sensitivity afterward is normal and usually fades in days.
How much does an onlay cost in NYC?
Fees depend on the tooth and the case. You get a written fee at your exam.
Does insurance cover inlays and onlays?
We are out of network with insurance. We can provide the paperwork you need to submit to your plan, but we cannot promise reimbursement. Payment plans are available.
What are inlays and onlays made of?
Tooth-colored ceramic, which blends with your teeth.
How long does it take to get an onlay or inlay?
We do onlays and inlays the same day. You come in, we prepare the tooth, and you leave with your final restoration in one visit.
What are the benefits of inlays and onlays?
They save more of your natural tooth than a crown, strengthen the tooth, seal tightly and look like your teeth.
How should I care for an onlay?
Brush and floss as usual. Avoid chewing ice or very hard food, and wear a night guard if you grind.
Can an onlay fall out?
Rarely. If it does, keep it and call us. We can usually re-bond it if the tooth is intact.
Are onlays tooth colored?
Yes. Ceramic onlays are matched to your natural shade.
Do I need an onlay or a crown?
It depends on how much healthy tooth is left. A quick exam and X-ray answer it.
Can an onlay fix a cracked tooth?
It can protect a tooth with a crack that has not reached the nerve. We check first.
Do I need a root canal if I get an onlay?
Not necessarily. Many onlays are done on teeth with healthy nerves. If the nerve is involved, we will explain the options.
Are inlays and onlays cosmetic dentistry?
They are mainly restorative, but they are tooth colored, so they also look natural.
More questions
Is an onlay better than a crown?
When enough healthy tooth remains, an onlay is the more conservative choice. If the tooth is too weak, a crown is safer. We will tell you which.
Are inlays and onlays better than fillings?
For larger cavities, usually yes. They hold their shape under chewing, seal well and can last longer.
Do I need a temporary onlay?
Usually not. Because we do onlays the same day, you leave with the final restoration.
Can an onlay crack or break?
Any restoration can chip with heavy force. A night guard and good fit lower the risk.
Why does my tooth hurt after an onlay?
Short sensitivity to cold or biting is common as the tooth settles. If it lasts more than a couple of weeks or gets worse, call us.
Can I eat after getting an onlay?
Once the numbness wears off, yes. Go easy on the treated side for the first day.
Can I replace an old silver filling with an onlay?
Yes. Many patients replace large old fillings with tooth-colored onlays, especially when the tooth has cracks.
My tooth has a large cavity. Do I need a crown?
Not always. An onlay can save more tooth if the walls are still strong.
Can onlays be done on front teeth?
Onlays and inlays are for back teeth. Front teeth are repaired with bonding, veneers or crowns.
Are onlays worth the money?
Often yes, because they save natural tooth and can delay or avoid a crown.
Where can I get an onlay on the Upper East Side?
At Dentistry on Park, 842 Park Avenue. Book online or call 212-570-6060.
Explore more
Dentistry on Park, 842 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10075. Office hours Monday to Thursday, with emergency hours outside them. See all services.