Though we generally recommend a crown restoration for patients with large areas of decay, there are some circumstances where porcelain inlays and onlays may be an appropriate option. An alternative to traditional fillings, these porcelain restorations are used when decay has made the tooth weak. Inlays cover the biting surface of the tooth up to the cusps, while onlays cover the cusps and sides of the tooth. In most cases, inlays and onlays strengthen the structure of the tooth.
