Inlays & Onlays

Composite fillings, often referred to as tooth-colored fillings, have grown in popularity due to their natural appearance, making them almost indistinguishable from the rest of the tooth. These fillings are ideal for addressing small to medium-sized cavities, blending seamlessly with the tooth’s natural color and ensuring that any repair or restoration is virtually invisible to the naked eye.

However, teeth undergo a significant amount of stress, especially during chewing. For moderately large restorations where more of the tooth structure is compromised, a mere composite filling might not provide the required strength to endure these forces over the long term. In such situations, it’s imperative to opt for a solution that can better withstand the pressure and provide the tooth with more support and longevity.

This is where inlays and onlays come into play. Both inlays and onlays are custom-made and typically crafted from durable materials, such as porcelain or gold. While inlays fit within the cusps (or bumps) on the chewing surface of a tooth, onlays extend over one or more cusps, providing more extensive coverage. Their design ensures that they provide the necessary strength to a tooth that’s significantly damaged or decayed, ensuring it remains functional and maintains its structural integrity for years to come.

At our practice, we prioritize the long-term health and functionality of your teeth. Therefore, when faced with a situation where a composite filling might not suffice, we will recommend the more robust option of an inlay or onlay, ensuring that your teeth remain strong and resilient against the everyday pressures they encounter.

Inlays

Porcelain Inlays are also colour matched they are stronger than composite fillings and saves more tooth structure than crowns. They are used in cases where back teeth are moderately damage. Inlays are cemented into place and are contained within the cusp tips of the tooth. A special cement is used to increase the bonding strength.

Onlays

Made of the same material as inlays. Used to protect fracture damaged teeth from further damage, they are also matched to the colour of your teeth. They extend over the cusp of the teeth and also save more tooth structure than crown. An onlay is much stronger than any filling material and actually increases the strength.

What’s involved in having an inlay or onlay

The fitting of inlays and onlays requires 2 visits.

Initial visit

• The old filling and decay is removed, clean and the surface of tooth prepared for the new restoration.
• Impression taken and sent to the dental laboratory, so we can construct a custom-made inlay or onlay
• Temporary filling is done while we wait for the laboratory to construct the restoration

Second visit

• Temporary filling removed
• Inlay or onlay are fitted and cemented

Advantages of Inlays and Onlays

• Strength is the major advantage
• Tooth colour
• Durable and with good oral hygiene and regular dental visits they will last over 10 years.
• An alternative to complex crowns

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