Inlay / Onlay – Partial Coverage Crown
An inlay or onlay (partial coverage crown) is a restorative dental solution used when a tooth has extensive damage or fracture but does not require a full crown.
It is usually made from porcelain, composite resin, or zirconia and is precisely fitted onto the tooth, replacing only the damaged or decayed portion.
Unlike a filling, an inlay/onlay provides greater strength, excellent fit, and aesthetics.
Compared to a full crown, it preserves more of the natural tooth structure, making it a more conservative and biocompatible option.
It is commonly used:
• When there is a large restoration that cannot be supported by a filling alone
• When part of the tooth has fractured
• When optimal aesthetic and functional restoration is desired
The result is natural in appearance, stable in occlusion, and particularly long-lasting.
