Cosmetic dentistry
Inlays & Onlays in Da Nang
Custom, laboratory-made restorations for larger cavities — a middle option between a filling and a full crown, made and fitted inside Vinmec Da Nang International Hospital.
Inlays and onlays are custom, laboratory-made restorations for teeth where a cavity or old filling is too large for a simple direct filling, but the tooth is not so damaged that it needs a full crown. An inlay fits within the biting surface of the tooth; an onlay also covers one or more of the raised cusps.
At Vinmec Picasso, these restorations are made and fitted inside Vinmec Da Nang International Hospital. The starting point is an examination to confirm that an inlay or onlay is the right middle option for your tooth.
Where inlays and onlays fit in
Think of them as sitting between a filling and a crown. For small damage, a direct filling is usually enough. For a heavily broken tooth, a crown gives more protection. In between — a larger cavity in a tooth that still has good healthy structure — a well-fitted inlay or onlay can restore the biting surface while preserving more of your own tooth. Any decay or bite issue is managed first.
How the tooth is restored
The tooth is prepared and scanned or impressed, and your restoration is made in the laboratory to fit precisely and match the tooth colour. It is then bonded in place and the bite is adjusted. Results vary from person to person, so you receive a written plan with timing and fees, and the choice between a filling, an inlay or onlay, and a crown is explained before treatment begins.
At a glance
- TreatsLarger cavities or damage too big for a simple filling
- Inlay vs onlayAn inlay sits within the tooth; an onlay also covers one or more cusps
- VisitsUsually a preparation visit and a fitting visit
- AnesthesiaLocal anesthetic during preparation
Is it right for you?
Often recommended when:
- A cavity or old filling is too large for a new direct filling
- The tooth still has enough healthy structure to avoid a full crown
- You want a durable, custom restoration for a back tooth
May not be the right option when:
- The damage is small and a direct filling would do
- The tooth is so broken down that a crown gives better protection
- There is untreated decay or a bite problem to manage first
Suitability is confirmed only after a clinical examination. Alternatives are discussed where they exist.
What the treatment involves
Examination & diagnosis
The tooth is examined, with an X-ray where needed, to confirm an inlay or onlay is the right choice rather than a filling or a crown.
Preparation & scan
Decay or the old filling is removed, the tooth is shaped, and a scan or impression is taken. A temporary restoration may be placed.
Laboratory fabrication
Your inlay or onlay is made in the laboratory to fit the prepared tooth and match its colour.
Fitting & bonding
The restoration is checked for fit, bonded into place, and your bite is adjusted for comfort.
Recovery & aftercare
- Short-term sensitivity is common and usually settles; the team gives written guidance.
- Clean around the restoration as normal and keep regular check-ups.
- A night guard may be recommended after examination if you grind your teeth.
Common questions
What is the difference between an inlay and an onlay?
Why not just have a filling or a crown?
How long do they last?
Related treatments
Next step
Talk to the team about your case
Send an inquiry and a patient coordinator will contact you during clinic hours—in English or Vietnamese—to arrange your consultation and explain what happens next.