Long-lasting repairs for damaged teeth
Inlays and onlays can be used in place of standard fillings to restore more extensive areas of decay or damage. They are made outside the mouth and cemented in place, providing a less invasive and more cost-effective alternative to a crown. An inlay is fitted within the cavity, while an onlay fully covers the biting surface of the tooth.
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Why have an inlay or onlay?
Inlays and onlays are strong, long-lasting and highly natural-looking. They are made from porcelain or composite material, colour-matched to your natural tooth shade so they are unable to be seen when you talk, smile or laugh.
Inlays and onlays are tailored to fit your individual needs, and keep more of your healthy tooth in place. They protect and strengthen your tooth and are more durable and stable than a traditional filling.
Get in touchWhat does the treatment involve?
- Firstly, we remove any areas of decay or old fillings and carefully clean your tooth.
- We take images and impressions of your tooth, which are used by a dental laboratory to create your custom-made inlay or onlay. The accurate impressions mean it will exactly match the area to be filled. We fit a temporary restoration on your tooth to protect the prepared cavity between appointments.
- When your inlay or onlay is ready, we check it for fit and comfort before fixing it permanently into place using a strong dental adhesive.
Frequently asked questions
Inlays and onlays are made from hardwearing materials, including porcelain and composite resin, and if aesthetics is not an issue, gold can be used to provide a particularly durable restoration.
