Inlays & Onlays

Inlays and onlays are a strong, long-lasting alternative to traditional fillings, sitting between a filling and a crown in terms of strength and coverage.

They provide essential protection for teeth that have been affected by decay or minor fractures. When damage is not extensive enough to require a full crown, this type of restoration offers a more conservative solution.

What are inlays and onlays?

This restorative treatment is designed to protect and strengthen a damaged tooth by covering the affected area like a protective layer. Each restoration is custom-made by a dental technician to fit your tooth precisely and is securely bonded into place. Depending on where the damage is located, it may sit within the centre of the tooth or extend over the biting surface.

Safeguarding your tooth from future damage

This type of restoration may be recommended when:

• There is not enough healthy tooth structure to support a filling, or a filling would not provide adequate protection.
• The damage is too extensive for a filling but not severe enough to require a crown. As crowns involve removing more natural tooth structure, this approach is often more tooth-preserving. For this reason, we will always explore these options first before determining whether a crown is the most suitable treatment.

These restorations are made from durable, tooth-coloured materials such as composite or porcelain. Gold may also be used for back teeth, where strength is essential, and the material is not visible when you smile.