Inlays and onlays are types of indirect dental restorations used to repair damaged or decayed teeth. They are custom-made in a dental laboratory based on impressions taken of the patient's tooth. Here's a closer look at inlays and onlays: Inlays are used to repair small to moderate areas of decay or damage within the biting surface (occlusal surface) of a tooth or between the cusps (points) of a tooth. Onlays, also known as partial crowns, are used to repair larger areas of decay or damage that extend beyond the biting surface of the tooth.

Advantages:

• Both these can offer excellent durability and strength.
• They provide a natural appearance as they can be color-matched to the surrounding teeth.
• Inlays and onlays preserve more natural tooth structure compared to full crowns.
• They provide a precise fit and can restore proper tooth function.