Inlays & Onlays
Inlays & Onlays: Durable Solutions for Damaged Teeth
When decayed or chipped teeth are too damaged for traditional white composite fillings, inlays and onlays provide a superior alternative. Particularly for back teeth, these restorations offer strength and durability. Made from high-quality materials like metals or ceramics, inlays and onlays are designed to restore your teeth’ appearance and function. An inlay is a custom-made filling that fits into the biting surface of a tooth, while an onlay covers a larger portion, making it ideal for more extensive damage or large cavities. Historically, gold was used for these restorations, but modern tooth-coloured porcelain has become the preferred material for its natural look and durability, blending seamlessly with your smile.
How Inlays and Onlays Work
1. Initial Impression: After thoroughly cleaning your tooth, we’ll take an impression, and send it to a dental lab where a technician crafts your custom inlay or onlay.
2. Temporary Filling: While your permanent restoration is being made, we’ll
fit your tooth with a temporary filling to protect it.
3. Placement: Once the inlay or onlay is ready, we’ll bond it into place using a specialised adhesive, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit. After placement, the restored tooth will look, feel, and function like a natural tooth, allowing you to bite and chew comfortably.
Thanks to advances in digital dentistry, some practices now use CEREC technology (CAD/CAM) to create porcelain inlays on-site, allowing for faster restoration with fewer visits to the dentist.
Life Benefits of Inlays & Onlays
- Preserves tooth structure: Inlays and onlays help maintain the integrity of the natural tooth by removing only the decayed or damaged portion.
- Aesthetic appeal: Porcelain inlays and onlays blend seamlessly with your natural teeth for a beautiful, natural-looking smile.
- Long-lasting solution: These restorations provide a durable and functional fix, ensuring you can bite, chew, and eat without discomfort for many years.
