Note: This article is the last part in a 4-part series about the cosmetic dentistry procedure of indirect fillings, and what patients need to know.

What Lies Ahead for Inlays and Onlays

Inlays and onlays continue to develop and become closer and closer to a real tooth in terms of structure, durability and longevity. Because of their aesthetic and functional values, inlays and onlays will continue to be used for restorative purposes and will not find replacements anytime soon. As a matter of fact, the continuous evolution of the materials used in inlays and onlays suggest a potential capability of the said restorations to actually maintain tooth color in the near future.

Which Dentist to go to to get an Inlay or Onlay?

There are actually very few dentists who perform porcelain inlay and onlay procedures because of the absence of formal dental training and educational courses associated with the practice. Some dentists get their training from their experiences with working closely with dental technicians from whom they get feedbacks from. Others have high-tech machines that analyze a damaged tooth well, which equally helps them discuss the results with a technician to arrive at the best possible treatment options available for the patient. Some have in-house technicians assisting them while they examine their patients.

The Price Tags of Inlays and Onlays

Several factors affect the pricetag associated with a dental inlay or onlay procedure:

• The credibility and experience of the dentist. Those with more knowledge, training and experience in the procedure may charge higher than others.

• Locality. Rates sometimes vary depending on your location.

• Which teeth? Back teeth—which are much harder to work on—often cost more than front teeth restoration.

• Restoration material. Gold can cost more in some markets while porcelain can also be more costly if a highly skilled technician is the one who fabricates it.

• Inlay or onlay size. Size matters: the larger the inlay or onlay, the higher the price.

Inlays and Onlays and Dental Insurance Coverage

Depending on the dental insurance company, inlays and onlays may be placed on either basic or major service categories.

The basic category includes coverage for common, routine dental services such as dental fillings and cleanings. Companies can either have pre-set limits for such basic services, or cover a certain percentage of the inlay/onlay fee. The major category on the other hand, which includes services like full coverage dental crowns, often reimburses 50 percent of the coverage rate.

For dental offices that are well-experienced in providing inlay and onlay services, they would generally know the reimbursement rates of your insurance company. Remember that such rates will vary depending on your area, location or country. It would be wise to ask your dentist to provide a pre-treatment estimate to your insurance company in order for you to better understand your insurance benefits in the dental field.