At Horsley Dental we use Inlays and Onlays to restore decayed or fractured teeth, particularly those found towards the back of the mouth. They are a very effective solution when the damage to the tooth is too great to be repaired by a filling yet not great enough for it to be replaced with a whole new crown.
Sometimes referred to as partial crowns, Dental Inlays and Onlays are made from a composite or ceramic material. Inlays are used to repair damage in the recess in the middle of the tooth between the cusps. Onlays, on the other hand, are used to repair damage to the cusps themselves and their outer surface.
Dental Inlays and Onlays are very strong and are durable enough to last for many years. The result looks very natural as the material used can be coloured to the same shade as the natural teeth. They are particularly suitable for the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, though in some cases they can also be used for repairs to the front teeth.
At the initial consultation appointment your dentist will assess if Dental Inlays or Onlays are appropriate for you. The procedure will be fully explained and you will have the opportunity to discuss the results you would like to achieve and ask any questions you may have. The treatment itself is normally split over two visits to the practice. Impressions of the damaged tooth are taken of the first appointment and these are then sent away to a special laboratory where the bespoke Inlay or Onlay is created. These are then fitted at the second appointment before being polished and cleaned to achieve the final result.
If you think that Inlays and Onlays might be for you, please call our reception on 01483 281 414 to arrange a consultation. To find out how much Inlays and Onlays cost at Horsley Dental, please visit our Fees page to see our latest prices.
Inlays and onlays are often a good choice when a tooth is too damaged for a standard filling but doesn’t need the full coverage of a crown. They allow more of the natural tooth to be preserved while still restoring strength and shape. This makes them a useful middle-ground option when you want a durable repair without removing more tooth structure than necessary.
Inlays and onlays offer a strong and precise way to repair teeth while preserving more of the natural structure than a full crown. Because they are custom-made, they fit very closely to the tooth, creating a secure and long-lasting result. When tooth-coloured materials are used, they also provide a very natural appearance, blending in seamlessly with the surrounding teeth.
Inlays and onlays are more involved than standard fillings, so the treatment usually takes more than one visit. They can also be more costly due to the custom design and laboratory work involved. As with any restoration, they can wear over time, especially on teeth that take a lot of biting pressure. However, for many patients, the long-term strength and fit often outweigh these considerations.
With proper care, inlays and onlays can remain strong and effective for many years. How long they last can vary depending on where the tooth is in the mouth, the material chosen, and how much pressure it takes during chewing. Like any dental restoration, some natural wear is expected over time, so it’s important they’re checked regularly to make sure they stay secure and in good condition.
The procedure is usually very comfortable, as the tooth is numbed before treatment begins. You may feel some pressure while the tooth is prepared, but not pain. A temporary restoration is often placed while your custom inlay or onlay is being made, and this is replaced with the final one at your next visit. Most people find the process straightforward and are comfortable returning to normal eating once the final restoration is fitted.