Porcelain and gold inlays and onlays are restorations made in the laboratory and used to replace conventional amalgam or composite resin restorations.

They are used in cases where the tooth is more fragile, since they protect the tooth better against possible cracking and withstand the pressure exerted by chewing.

The dentist prepares the tooth, makes a mould and sends it to the laboratory, then glues in the inlay or onlay during the next visit. Porcelain is more esthetically pleasing and adheres to the tooth. Gold inlays and onlays are stronger and longer lasting.