Inlays and Onlays

INLAYS OR ONLAYS ARE INDIRECT FILLINGS MADE IN THE LABORATORY THAT FIT INTO OR ONTO A TOOTH.

Inlays or Onlays make the tooth stronger by reinforcing it together while retaining a natural, aesthetically pleasing colour. They are typically used when a cavity is too large for a simple filling, but the tooth is still in a condition that does not require a crown.

The Process

The procedure typically happens over the course of two appointments and is like the procedure of a crown.

• You will first have a consultation to determine whether an inlay or onlay is right for you. If it is, the clinician will discuss the pros and cons of each material on offer. We will help you to decide which type of crown is right for you.
• In your first appointment, the clinician will examine the tooth and prepare and shape the tooth by removing all present decay and/or old material. Painless impressions (using putty) are taken to record the shape of the damaged tooth and the surrounding teeth, allowing the indirect restoration to be made. While the inlay/onlay is being made, the patient is given a temporary filling to protect the damaged tooth. You will be consulted and have final say on the shade used to ensure it matches your existing tooth colour.

During the second visit, this temporary filling will be removed, and the indirect filling will be fitted. The fit and bite will be checked before you leave the surgery and any necessary adjustments will be made.

Your tooth might feel different after the procedure, as it might have a slightly different shape than your original tooth. This is normal, and should acclimatise after a few days. If your bite does not feel comfortable after a few days further adjustments can be made.

Inlays, Onlays, Crowns and Fillings….What’s the difference?

All 4 treatments have the same goal of restoring damaged teeth, preventing future problems and improving their appearance. They can also all be conducted using natural tooth coloured material.

What are Inlays?

A dental inlay is made of a solid material that is custom-fit to your tooth. It is usually used to fill the space in the centre of your tooth that has been damaged by decay or injury. It does not extend over the cusps of the tooth.

What are Onlays?

An onlay is larger than an inlay but smaller than a dental crown. It is used to fill a larger cavity that extends over the cusps of a tooth. Dental onlays are generally used to repair more extensive damage. They are often recommended if you have a large cavity extending beyond the tooth’s centre.

Inlays vs. Fillings

Fillings are the most basic type of restoration. This treatment is used to fill small cavities and stop further decay. Fillings are quick and easy to place and can usually be finished in one visit. Inlays are similar to fillings, but they are used for slightly larger cavities. They are more durable than fillings because they are made of stronger materials, but this means it takes longer to make them. Inlays can take around two visits to complete.

Onlays vs. Crowns

If an inlay isn’t suitable because of the missing tooth structure, you may need an onlay instead. An onlay will cover the cusps of the tooth.
Crowns are the most complex out of the four treatments. This restoration covers the entire surface area of a tooth and is often recommended when you need extensive repairs.