Our doctor is confused about the difference between an onlay and inlay. My questions is: how is an inlay possibly 2+ surfaces? If it doesn’t extend over any cusps, wouldn’t an onlay always be an O surface, and no more? Then if it does extend onto any cusps, it would be then considered an onlay? Any clarification would be very helpful. Thank you.

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  • Our doctor is confused about the difference between an onlay and inlay. My questions is: how is an inlay possibly 2+ surfaces? If it doesn't extend over any cusps, wouldn't an onlay always be an O surface, and no more? Then if it does extend onto any cusps, it would be then considered an onlay? Any clarification would be very helpful. Thank you.

Our doctor is confused about the difference between an onlay and inlay. My questions is: how is an inlay possibly 2+ surfaces? If it doesn’t extend over any cusps, wouldn’t an onlay always be an O surface, and no more? Then if it does extend onto any cusps, it would be then considered an onlay? Any clarification would be very helpful. Thank you.

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Asked on May 29, 2012
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In dentistry, an inlay is an indirect restoration (filling) consisting of a solid substance like gold or porcelain and is fitted directly to a cavity in a tooth then cemented into place. An onlay is the same as an inlay, except it extends to replace a cusp.

So to answer your question, yes, if it extends onto any cusp it would then be considered an onlay rather than an inlay.

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Answered on May 30, 2012
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