Between a filling and full coverage
Partial coverage can be considered when a direct filling is unsuitable but some tooth structure can remain uncovered. The decision is about the tooth’s condition, not a fixed size rule.
General Dentistry / Treatment guide
Inlays & Onlays
Inlays and onlays are custom restorations made to repair part of a tooth. An inlay fits within the chewing surface; an onlay extends over one or more cusps when those raised areas need protection or replacement.
Explore your options with our Atlas Dental team. Ask who would provide your treatment and whether a specialist referral is needed.
Let’s talk about your options See what care can involveA closer lookTreatment animation
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How an inlay fits
An inlay is a custom restoration that fits within the raised cusps of a tooth to repair part of its chewing surface.
- 01Prepared area
- 02Custom inlay
- 03Natural cusps
This example shows an inlay. An onlay extends over one or more cusps when those areas also need coverage.
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How an onlay fits
An onlay restores part of the chewing surface and covers one or more of the tooth’s raised cusps.
- 01Prepared tooth
- 02Custom onlay
- 03Cusp coverage
This example shows an onlay. The amount of coverage depends on which parts of the tooth need support.
Understanding your care
A repair sized to the remaining tooth
Start with the purpose of treatment, then explore what matters for your own care.
Protect a vulnerable cusp
A cusp weakened by damage or an existing restoration may need coverage. An onlay can include that area while leaving suitable parts of the tooth in place.
Choose fit and material together
Ceramic, composite, and metal restorations have different properties. Preparation, bonding or cementation, available space, and bite all affect which approach is appropriate for a particular tooth.
From questions to a plan
What care can involve.
The details and sequence depend on your assessment and individual treatment plan.
Assess the remaining structure
The dentist evaluates the damaged area and individual cusps. A discussion of filling, partial coverage, and crown options helps explain the proposed amount of restoration.
Prepare and record the tooth
The selected area is shaped for the restoration and captured with an impression or scan. The design follows the tooth’s remaining structure and bite.
Create the custom piece
The restoration is made outside the mouth using an appropriate material. Depending on the process, a temporary restoration may protect the tooth between appointments.
Fit and secure
The clinician checks the fit, contacts, and bite before bonding or cementing the restoration. The remaining tooth and margins continue to need cleaning and review.
Before you decide
A plan that makes
sense for you.
Partial coverage is not suitable for every damaged tooth. It still requires preparation and can develop wear, fracture, sensitivity, or decay at the margins. A filling or crown may be more appropriate depending on the remaining structure and bite. Material choice and attachment also matter, so the amount of coverage should follow the clinical assessment.
What is the practical difference?
An inlay usually stays within the cusps of the chewing surface. An onlay covers one or more cusps when those areas need to be restored or protected.
Why not use a regular filling?
A direct filling may be appropriate for many repairs. A custom inlay or onlay can be considered when the shape, size, or demands on the damaged area call for another approach.
Will it look like a natural tooth?
Tooth-colored materials are available, but material choice includes more than appearance. The dentist considers the tooth’s location, available space, remaining structure, and bite when discussing a suitable option.
A place to begin
Bring your questions.
We’ll start there.
Talk through your priorities, alternatives and who would provide your care. An assessment helps clarify the next step.
Let’s talk about your optionsOur team will contact you to confirm your visit.
About this guide & educational sources
The treatment images and animations in this guide illustrate examples of care. They are not Atlas Dental patient results, personal treatment recommendations or statements about an individual clinician’s scope. Your assessment and care plan determine which options are appropriate for you.