How much does an Inlay/Onlay cost in Washington?
Underlined terms link to definitions in the Pearl Dental Glossary.
What is this procedure?
About this procedure
Inlays and onlays are mid-range restorations between fillings and crowns. They're used when a tooth has too much damage for a filling but doesn't need a full crown. An inlay fits within the cusps of a tooth; an onlay covers one or more cusps. Made in a dental lab from porcelain, gold, or composite, then bonded to the tooth. Cost is higher than a filling but typically lower than a crown.
Price factors
What affects the cost?
- Inlay vs. onlay: Onlays cover more tooth surface; cost 10-20% more
- Material: Composite ($350-800), porcelain ($800-1,500), gold ($800-1,800)
- Tooth location: Molars typically cost more
- Lab fabrication: Traditional lab vs. in-office CEREC milling
- Provider: General dentist vs. cosmetic specialist
By city
Cities we cover
Pearl has city-level pricing in these covered cities. Click a city to see local fee ranges, what affects the quote, and your estimated out-of-pocket.
Quote checker
What should your quote include?
Different offices bundle costs differently. Here's what a complete quote typically covers — and what's often left out.
Usually included in the quoted price
- Tooth preparation and decay removal
- Impression for lab fabrication
- Temporary restoration during fabrication
- Final inlay/onlay placement
Often billed separately — ask before you agree
- Diagnostic x-rays
- Replacement if it fractures or debonds (lifespan 10-20 years)
Health stakes
What happens if you delay treatment?
Restorative procedures are usually recommended once a tooth has lost too much structure to remain stable on its own. Waiting rarely makes the situation simpler.
- More expensive than a filling but less durable than a crown for heavily damaged teeth
- Cementation failure can lead to debonding
- Some patients sensitive to underlying bonding material
Before you agree
Questions to ask your dentist
A good dentist won't mind these. Print this list or take a photo before your next visit.
- Is an inlay/onlay appropriate, or do I need a crown?
- What material do you recommend for this tooth?
- How long should this restoration last?
Coverage
Insurance & coverage notes
Insurance coverage varies by procedure type. For Inlay / Onlay, typical coverage tiers are: No Insurance $350 - $1,800, Basic Insurance $200 - $1,400, Major Insurance $100 - $900.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Why choose an inlay/onlay instead of a filling or a crown?
Inlay/onlay is the right call when a tooth has too much damage for a composite filling (which would be weak in a large preparation) but enough healthy structure remaining to not need a full crown. The lab-fabricated material is more durable than a chairside filling. Common for moderately damaged molars.
Does insurance cover inlays and onlays?
Most plans cover inlays/onlays under your restorative benefit, typically at 50-80% with an annual maximum. Coverage may be limited to the cost of an amalgam filling, with you paying the difference for ceramic or gold options.
How long do inlays and onlays last?
Porcelain inlays: 10-15 years. Gold inlays: 20+ years (most durable but visible). Composite inlays: 7-10 years. Longevity depends on bite forces, oral hygiene, and the material. Inlays/onlays often outlast traditional composite fillings by 5-10 years.
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What does this cost in your city?
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