Inlays and onlays

creating beautiful smiles

As well as providing natural-looking fillings, I also offer inlays and onlays to restore teeth towards the back of the mouth that have shown signs of damage or decay.

Dental Inlay is a restoration that fits into the centre of the tooth, filling a cavity on an area of damage. It is typically used when the damage is too extensive for a simple filling but not severe enough to require a dental crown.

Dental Onlays are more extensive restorations which cover one or more cusps of a tooth. They fit on the tooth like a hat protecting the damaged or weakened tooth structure underneath. They are widely used for covering cracks which have become sensitive or deep and needs extra protection.

Both inlays and onlays are usually fabricated in a dental laboratory based on impressions or scan taken by me. They are then cemented onto the damaged tooth, providing a strong and durable solution that preserves more natural tooth structure compared to a crown. These restorations are often made from materials like porcelain, composite resin, or gold.

What my patients love the most about dental onlays?

1. Onlays are more conservative than crowns
2. They have superiors aesthetics than fillings
3. It’s a proactive way of reducing the chances of cracks in teeth propagating and worsening over time

What my patients like the least about dental onlays?

1. Costs are higher than fillings due to laboratory components
2. Will need 2 appointments

What are the benefits of dental onlays?

Once the procedure is complete, you’ll find the restoration is more aesthetic and long-lasting than other tooth coloured treatments.
Teeth that are damaged or decayed will need to be restored. Your ability to chew properly will be compromised if the problem is not addressed. In some cases, a filling can protect against further decay, but this option may not provide the necessary protection you need. Simply put, onlays make the damaged tooth stronger.

We will always discuss all your needs and I often provide a number of options to restore your teeth that look natural whilst providing strength and stability. Inlays and onlays, also known as partial dental crowns, are usually made from a strong ceramic material. The result is an almost invisible restoration that can last for many years.

What are the benefits of inlays and onlays?

- Inlays and onlays are strong and last longer than fillings. They are most suitable for large restorations of the back teeth.
- The provide superiors aesthetics than fillings
- They can cover cracks on teeth to avoid cracks deepening no casing symptoms or sensitive and pain
- If they tooth is healthy in some areas, unlike traditional full coverage crowns, the healthy tooth structure can be preserved and so they preserve more of your tooth structure.

How do fillings differ?

White fillings are less durable and can discolour. They may not be suitable for the back teeth if the damage is extensive. The life expectancy of a white filling can depend greatly on where it is in the mouth and how heavy the teeth come together when you bite.