Inlays & Onlays

Inlays & Onlays

20 / 05 / 2022

A popular dental restoration, inlays and onlays can also be used to replace old silver fillings. Commonly, they are used when a tooth requires slightly more support than offered by a filling yet less coverage than offered by a crown. At Wine Street Dental, we will advise which restorative treatment is best suited for your needs. In simple terms, an inlay is placed within the cusps (or corners) of a tooth, whereas an onlay sits just over the cusps of the tooth.

They can be made from resin, gold or porcelain and the material you choose depends on the location in the mouth and price.

Initially, following a thorough examination, the dentist will take impressions of your teeth so our laboratory team can make the right size and shape restoration for your mouth. The dentist will also carry out any preparatory work required for the affected tooth. They might end the appointment by fitting you with a temporary cover on the affected tooth, which will hold until your next visit. On your return, the inlay or onlay will be bonded to your natural tooth once the dentist has ascertained that it fits and looks as it should.

Questions & Answers

Will the inlay or onlay be visible to others? 

If you choose the tooth-coloured option, this will be practically invisible to others as it blends in perfectly with the mouth. Metallic or gold inlays and onlays are visible, however, they will be at the back of the mouth so less obvious.

How long will the inlay and onlay last?

These are hard wearing, long-lasting restorative solutions and can last for a number of years as long as you look after your teeth properly and maintain a good standard of oral care.