Inlay and onlay are restoration methods that are frequently used in dental treatment and offer natural-looking solutions in terms of aesthetics. These two methods are generally preferred for decay, abrasion or damage in the teeth and strengthen the structure of the tooth while also restoring its functionality.

Inlay: It is usually used to fill the gaps in the inner part of decayed or damaged teeth in the back teeth. Inlay is specially prepared to match the natural structure of the tooth and bonded to the tooth. This process increases the functionality of the tooth while preserving its aesthetic appearance.

Onlay: It is similar to inlay but covers a larger area. It can also cover one or more protrusions (crown or cusp) of the tooth. Onlay is preferred in cases of greater damage or decay because it supports and strengthens the tooth more.

Both methods are preferred when sufficient coating cannot be provided in normal filling applications. In particular, when there is more damage to the tooth and a more durable solution is needed to protect the structure of the tooth, using inlay or onlay reduces the risk of complete loss of the tooth in the future and helps the tooth to be long-lasting. These treatments are usually made from porcelain or composite materials, which preserves the natural appearance of the teeth.