Inlays and Onlays

Decayed or chipped teeth can often be repaired with white composite fillings that look natural, however if the damage is too substantial, particularly on the back teeth, then an inlay or onlay would be recommended. Inlays or onlays can be made from a number of strong materials such as metals or ceramics.

An inlay is a small filling that fits into the biting surface of a tooth. An onlay covers a larger area of the tooth and is better suited to bigger cavities. Gold was traditionally used for these types of restorations. However, in recent times hard-wearing tooth-coloured porcelain has become a more popular choice of material. This is a more aesthetic way to restore the teeth and creates a more natural-looking smile.

Here is how they work:

After an impression is made of your tooth, the inlay or onlay will be made in a dental laboratory by a technician.

When your inlay or onlay is ready, we will bond it into place using a special adhesive, after removing the temporary filling.

Thanks to advances in digital technology (called CAD/CAM), porcelain inlays can be made at dental practices.

Whilst these are being prepared, you will wear a temporary filling.

Your restored tooth will look like a real tooth and will function as one, allowing you to bite, chew, and eat without discomfort.

This uses a special machine called CEREC. You will need fewer visits to the dentist to have your tooth restored.

Life benefits

Preserves remaining tooth structure;
Long-term aesthetic and functional solution;
Natural-looking restoration.