Tooth pain after chewing? A cracked filling or weakened tooth can turn into something worse, like a root canal or even tooth loss, if not treated in time. It’s scary how quickly things can go downhill.
We understand how stressful unexpected dental bills can be. Choosing the right treatment is just as much about cost as it is about saving your tooth.
Let’s explore the real difference between inlays and onlays and how to figure out which one gives you more value for your money.
What Are Dental Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are tooth-colored fillings that are custom-made to fill or repair damaged or decayed tooth structure when a filling is not adequate but a crown is not yet needed.
Inlays fill the area between the tips of the teeth.
Whereas, onlays cover a major portion that extends over one or more cusps.
Both Inlays and onlays are made with the help of durable materials such as porcelain or composite resin. Further, they are bonded to the tooth for long-lasting strength.
Dental Inlay vs. Onlay: Value for Money
When deciding between inlays and onlays, cost and durability are key factors. Below are the things you should consider:
| Feature | Inlays | Onlays |
| Coverage Area | Inside tooth grooves only | Covers grooves and one or more cusps |
| Durability | Up to 10 years or more | 10–15 years with proper care |
| Best For | Small to medium tooth damage | Moderate to large tooth damage |
| Insurance Coverage | Partially covered, varies | Partially covered, varies |
When discussing dental inlay vs. onlay value for money, inlays may cost slightly less, but onlays offer greater coverage and protection.
Choosing the right options depends on the size of the damage and your goals in the long run.
What Affects the Cost?
The cost of inlays and onlays would differ based on several factors:
- Size of damage: A bigger cavity requires more material and time.
- Material: Porcelain is usually more expensive than composite resin.
- Location: A dental clinic in Cambie, Vancouver, may charge one amount, while a clinic in a rural area charges another.
- Dental insurance: Dental insurance can cover a portion of the cavity filling, which will reduce out-of-pocket costs to you.
- Experience: A skilled dentist near you may charge more; however, the quality of work and results may be better and also last longer.
How to Know Which You Need
A dentist near you is the only professional who should determine if an inlay or onlay is the best choice for your tooth. They will assess the damage you have had to your tooth, take any needed X-rays, and look at your bite.
As a general rule,
- Choose an inlay if the damage is minor and is between the tooth cusps, somewhat like a filling.
- Choose an onlay if the damage is more significant and includes the biting surface of your tooth.
In some circumstances, if the tooth is so badly decayed or fractured that neither of them is suitable, a crown or other alternatives may be done instead.
Why Delaying Can Cost You More
If you let a cracked or decayed tooth go unnoticed, the problem could worsen, and you will need a complex procedure or possibly lose the tooth altogether. The price of the procedure done later on could be far greater than the treatment now.
Once the decay has gotten to the nerve, you are no longer talking about a filling. You may require a root canal, crown, or implant.
Damage Gets Worse, Not Cheaper
Each day you delay fixing a damaged tooth is a step closer to needing more expensive and invasive treatments.
Waiting Adds Cost And Pain
At Cambie Broadway Dental, we help you understand all your options to take care of your teeth and your budget. Our highly trained and experienced team explains the pros, cons, and costs of all treatments so you can make an informed decision without any surprises.
Let us help you maintain your natural teeth with care that suits your needs and your budget. Schedule your consultation today. Your long-term smile is worth it!
