- Medically Reviewed
- Last Updated On Aug 26, 2025
Preserve Your Natural Tooth Structure with Custom-Crafted, Durable Partial Restorations
Inlays and Onlays are lab-made restorations that are placed on teeth when the cavity or lost tooth structure is too large to be restored by a simple filling. The process of making an inlay is very similar to a crown. After the tooth is prepared, it is cemented or bonded to the tooth.
There are different materials that inlays are made of, including gold, porcelain, and composite resins. Porcelain and composite inlays and onlays are cosmetic alternatives to fillings and are very strong compared to regular white fillings. Gold inlays and onlays are also suitable alternatives, but their appearance makes them less popular.
Your dentist will explain when an inlay or onlay is a viable treatment option for you. In general, inlays and onlays can replace most back teeth fillings and are sometimes cosmetically preferred over conventional fillings. At the same time, they are more conservative than crowns.
As far as cost is concerned, because the process of making an inlay or onlay is similar to a crown, its cost is also comparable. But when considering the longevity of inlays and onlays, they can end up costing less than traditional fillings.
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Dr. Darryl Skale
Founding Partner & General Dentist
Advanced Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry
With over 40 years of experience, Dr. Darryl has been serving the Northbrook community since 1984. Known for his conservative approach and commitment to excellence.
Dr. Ryan Skale
Partner & Advanced General Dentist
Implant Dentistry, TMJ & Sleep Therapy
Dr. Ryan brings advanced training in complex rehabilitation, cosmetic dentistry, and sleep medicine to provide comprehensive care for every patient.
Dr. Wei Ting Ho
Board Certified Periodontist
Dental Implants & Periodontal Surgery
Our in-house surgeon specializes in advanced implant procedures, tissue regeneration, and comprehensive periodontal therapy for optimal oral health.
Dr. Sharon Goodzey
General & Esthetic Dentist
Cosmetic Dentistry & Patient-Centered Care
With over 25 years of expertise, Dr. Goodzey is passionate about creating beautiful smiles while building collaborative relationships with her patients.
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Ryan Skale
This content has been medically reviewed by Dr. Ryan Skale, DDS, founder and clinic director at Skale Dental Professionals in Northbrook, Illinois. As a respected authority in comprehensive dentistry, Dr. Skale specializes in creating comprehensive care plans focused on long-term oral health. He leads a family practice alongside Dr. Darryl Skale and Dr. Weiting Ho (Board Certified Periodontist), where they’ve successfully helped thousands of patients achieve optimal oral health through advanced dental techniques.
⚠️ The information on this page is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional dental advice. Treatment results may vary. Contact Skale Dental Professionals at (847) 272-1072 for personalized diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
