Inlays and Onlays

What are inlays and onlays?

Inlays and onlays are custom-made dental repairs designed to reconstruct the shape and integrity of damaged teeth.

Inlays and onlays can be crafted from tooth-coloured materials making them virtually unnoticeable.

The precision and resistance of inlays and onlays often allows damaged teeth to be saved.

Inlays

An inlay is an insert that completely fills a gap in the upper part of a damaged tooth. An Inlay can relieve tooth sensitivity and prevent further damage to the tooth.

Onlays

An onlay is bonded to the outside of a damaged or fractured tooth, restoring its integrity, adding strength and limiting further damage.

FAQs

Is an inlay or onlay painful?

As inlay or onlay treatments are carried out under local anaesthetic to minimise discomfort, most patients do not experience any pain.

Your dentist first prepares the tooth to be treated by removing damaged or decayed parts, in preparation for the inlay or onlay repair.

A dental impression is then taken, allowing the dental lab to make a bespoke inlay or onlay that fits exactly to the space in or on the prepared tooth.

When you come back to the practice, your dentist will check the position and fit of the inlay or onlay before permanently bonding it in place.

To complete the tooth restoration, the surface of the inlay or only may be smoothed and polished if needed for a comfortable bite and aesthetic finish.

For more information regarding this treatment
Contact Us or Call 020 8466 6001
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