Introduction

When a tooth is damaged by decay or injury, your dentist has several options to restore it. But with so many terms—fillings, inlays, onlays, crowns—it can feel confusing to know which treatment is best. Each solution has its advantages, depending on the size of the cavity, the strength of the remaining tooth, and your long-term dental health. In this blog, we’ll explain the differences between these restorative treatments, when each is used, and how to make the right choice for your smile.

What Are Dental Fillings?

• Best for: Small to medium cavities.
• How they work: The decayed part of the tooth is removed, and the space is filled with a material such as composite (tooth-coloured resin), amalgam, or glass ionomer.
• Benefits: Quick, cost-effective, and minimally invasive.
• Considerations: Less suitable for large cavities, as they may not provide enough strength.

What Are Inlays?

• Best for: Larger cavities that don’t affect the tooth’s cusps (the raised edges).
• How they work: An inlay is custom-made in a dental lab to fit precisely inside the tooth cavity, then bonded into place.
• Benefits: Stronger and longer-lasting than standard fillings. Can be made from porcelain, gold, or composite resin.
• Considerations: More expensive than fillings and usually require two appointments.

What Are Onlays?

• Best for: Large cavities or damage that extends over one or more cusps of the tooth.
• How they work: Similar to inlays but cover part of the biting surface as well. Often referred to as a “partial crown.”
• Benefits: Preserve more natural tooth than a full crown while providing excellent strength.
• Considerations: Require lab work and cost more than standard fillings.

What Are Crowns?

• Best for: Severely weakened, cracked, or heavily restored teeth.
• How they work: A crown (or cap) covers the entire visible surface of the tooth, restoring its shape, strength, and function.
• Benefits: Very durable and protective, especially for teeth that have had root canal treatment.
• Considerations: More tooth reduction is needed, and crowns are the most costly option.

How to Decide What’s Best for You

Your dentist will consider several factors:

• The size and location of the damage
• The amount of natural tooth remaining
• Your bite and chewing forces
• Your budget and long-term goals

For example:

• Small cavity in a molar → filling
• Larger cavity without cusp damage → inlay
• Damage extending over a cusp → onlay
• Severely weakened tooth → crown

Conclusion

Fillings, inlays, onlays, and crowns all have an important role in restoring teeth. The right choice depends on the extent of damage and the best way to protect your tooth for the future. If you have a cavity or broken tooth, your dentist will guide you through the most suitable option.

FAQs

Q: Are inlays and onlays better than fillings?

A: For larger cavities, yes—they provide more strength and longevity than standard fillings.

Q: How long do crowns last?

A: With good care, crowns can last 10–15 years or longer.

Q: Do these treatments hurt?

A: Procedures are carried out under local anaesthetic, so they should be pain-free. Mild soreness afterwards is normal.

‍