Inlays and onlays

Inlays and onlays are dental repair techniques that can restore and strengthen damaged teeth.

What are inlays and onlays?

Inlays and onlays are custom-made dental repair inserts. Frequently made from composite materials or metal, inlays and onlays are designed to reconstruct the shape and integrity of the tooth.

An inlay fills gaps and is fitted into the centre of a damaged tooth. An onlay is applied to the exterior of a damaged or fractured tooth, giving strength and limiting further damage.

What is the treatment for an inlay or onlay?

Under local anaesthetic, your dentist will first prepare the tooth to be treated by removing any damaged or decayed parts. A dental impression of the tooth will then be taken.

A custom-made inlay or onlay will then be made that exactly fits the space in the prepared tooth.

The inlay or onlay will be positioned and then bonded in place. To complete the restoration, the surface is smoothed for a comfortable bite and then polished.