Inlay, Onlay, or Overlay? Understanding Indirect Restorations

In the world of conservative dentistry, choosing the right restoration makes all the difference between longevity and failure. This visual comparison of inlay, onlay, and overlay restorations is more than just academic — it’s a clinical guide to preserving tooth structure while ensuring durability.

📌 Here’s what we aim for:

✅ Restore function
✅ Maintain esthetics
✅ Minimize invasiveness
✅ Maximize patient satisfaction

👨‍⚕️ When do we choose which?

Inlay: Fits within the cusps, ideal for smaller defects

Onlay: Covers one or more cusps, for moderately damaged teeth

Overlay: Extends coverage like a partial crown, best for extensive restorations

🎯 Key takeaway: Respect natural anatomy and save as much tooth as possible.

Whether you’re a clinician, dental student, or educator — mastering these restorations sets the foundation for ethical, evidence-based dentistry.

Let’s keep evolving dentistry towards precision and preservation!