Dental inlays and onlays combat early signs of tooth decay when a filling is no longer possible, and a crown isn’t needed yet.
Dental inlays and onlays are recommended when fillings aren’t possible, but the condition of the tooth is not bad enough to need a crown. These dental restorations are custom-made in a dental lab. An inlay is placed within the biting surface of the tooth, whereas onlays for your teeth can cover a larger area. Inlays and onlays in dentistry are particularly useful in the treatment of tooth decay and can reduce sensitivity and further tooth loss.
Dental inlays and onlays blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
We use durable materials to provide a long-lasting and reliable solution for damaged teeth.
Getting inlays and onlays means less healthy tooth structure removal, which is important for the strength and integrity of the tooth.
Explore answers to the most common questions about inlays and onlay.
What they have in common is that they’re all used to combat early signs of tooth decay. A white filling is made from a composite resin material which is moulded to fill a cavity. Dental inlays and onlays on the other hand, are custom-made restorations that are bonded over the top of an existing tooth. An inlay dental restoration is placed inside the edges of a tooth, while an onlay sits over the top of a tooth.
Inlays and onlays in dentistry are designed to treat the earlier stages of tooth decay. There is generally less preparation treatment required compared to a crown.
Like crowns, they require the patient to provide a dental impression. This is then sent to a dental technician who creates the tailor-made ‘tooth’. In between dental appointments, patients will receive a temporary filling. When your dental inlay or onlay is ready, your dentist will permanently bond it into the right place.
On average, inlays and onlays for teeth are more durable than fillings, and they can last as long as 10 years or sometimes more with regular oral health maintenance.
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Teeth Whitening Invisalign® Implants Dental Crowns Dental Check Ups Fixed Braces Composite Bonding Dental Hygiene