An onlay is similar to an inlay but extends to cover one or more of the tooth’s cusps or edges. It is used when damage is more extensive and affects a larger area of the tooth’s surface, yet does not require a full crown. Onlays are sometimes called “partial crowns” because they offer more coverage and protection than a simple filling but less than a full crown. Like inlays, onlays are made from durable materials such as porcelain or composite resin that blend naturally with the tooth. Composite onlays also help provide a strong and stable support for your jaw and teeth.