Inlays and Onlays

At Fletcher Dental Care, we understand that preserving your natural tooth structure is key to maintaining a healthy, functional smile. Inlays and Onlays are advanced restorative options for patients who have moderate decay or damage to their teeth that’s too extensive for a standard filling but doesn’t require a full crown. Crafted from high-quality materials, inlays and onlays restore strength, function, and appearance to compromised teeth, offering a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution for long-term oral health.

What Are Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations that are bonded to the surface of a damaged or decayed tooth, covering the affected area and restoring its integrity. They are commonly used on molars and premolars, where chewing forces are strongest. Unlike traditional fillings, which are applied directly to the cavity, inlays and onlays are fabricated outside the mouth in a dental lab and then bonded to the tooth, providing a more durable and precise fit.

Inlays: Inlays fill the space within the cusps (the raised areas) on the chewing surface of a tooth. They are ideal for treating small to moderate cavities or damage that doesn’t extend beyond the tooth’s cusps.
Onlays: Onlays, sometimes referred to as “partial crowns,” cover a larger area than inlays and extend over one or more cusps of the tooth. Onlays are used when the damage or decay affects a larger portion of the tooth but doesn’t necessitate a full crown.

Benefits of Inlays and Onlays

Inlays and onlays offer a range of benefits, making them a popular choice for restoring damaged teeth:

Preserves More Natural Tooth Structure: Inlays and onlays require less tooth removal than crowns, allowing us to preserve as much of your natural tooth as possible.
Enhanced Strength and Durability: Made from strong, long-lasting materials like porcelain or composite resin, inlays and onlays can withstand the pressures of daily chewing and resist wear and fracture.
Improved Aesthetics: Inlays and onlays are typically crafted to match the natural colour of your teeth, blending seamlessly with your smile and providing a natural appearance.
Minimally Invasive: The procedure for inlays and onlays is less invasive than a crown, meaning less discomfort and a faster recovery.
Better Fit and Seal: Because they are custom-made in a dental lab, inlays and onlays provide a precise fit that reduces the risk of bacteria and food particles getting trapped, helping to prevent future decay.

The Inlay and Onlay Procedure

Receiving an inlay or onlay typically requires two visits to our office. Here’s what you can expect during the process:

Initial Examination and Preparation
During your first appointment, we will assess the condition of your tooth and determine whether an inlay or onlay is the best restorative option. If it’s appropriate, we’ll numb the area and remove the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth. We will then take a digital or physical impression of the tooth, which will be sent to a dental lab to create your custom inlay or onlay. A temporary filling may be placed to protect your tooth until your next visit.
Fabrication of the Inlay or Onlay
In the dental lab, skilled technicians use the impressions to craft an inlay or onlay that fits precisely with the contours of your tooth. The material chosen (typically porcelain, ceramic, or composite resin) will match the colour of your tooth, providing a natural-looking restoration.
Bonding the Inlay or Onlay
During your second appointment, we will remove the temporary filling and clean the tooth to prepare it for bonding. The inlay or onlay will be placed onto the tooth to ensure a perfect fit before being bonded with a strong dental adhesive. Once in place, we’ll polish the surface, ensuring your bite feels comfortable and the restoration blends seamlessly with your surrounding teeth.

Who Can Benefit from Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are ideal for patients who have experienced moderate tooth damage or decay but still have enough healthy tooth structure to avoid a crown. They’re especially effective for:

Teeth with Large Cavities: When a cavity is too large for a filling but does not require a full crown.
Cracked or Fractured Teeth: Inlays and onlays help protect teeth that have minor cracks or fractures, preventing further damage.
Patients Seeking a Conservative Restoration: For those looking to preserve as much of their natural tooth as possible, inlays and onlays offer a minimally invasive solution.

Fletcher Dental Care’s Commitment to Quality Restorations

At Fletcher Dental Care, we pride ourselves on using high-quality materials and techniques to ensure that your inlays and onlays provide a strong, reliable restoration for years to come. Our team is dedicated to delivering personalised care, and we take the time to ensure that your treatment plan aligns with your unique needs and goals. We’re here to answer any questions you may have and help you feel comfortable throughout every step of your treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long do inlays and onlays last?

With proper care, inlays and onlays can last 10 to 15 years or longer. Regular dental checkups, good oral hygiene practices, and avoiding excessive force on the restored tooth help extend the life of your restoration.

Are inlays and onlays better than traditional fillings?

Inlays and onlays are typically stronger and more durable than traditional fillings, making them ideal for larger restorations or teeth that endure heavy chewing forces. They also offer a more precise fit and better protection against future decay.

Do inlays and onlays require special care?

Inlays and onlays don’t require special care beyond regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits. Avoid biting down on hard objects like ice or using your teeth as tools to prevent damage to the restoration.

Are inlays and onlays noticeable?

No, inlays and onlays are custom-made to match the natural colour of your teeth, so they blend seamlessly with your smile. They are virtually indistinguishable from your natural tooth structure.

Can inlays and onlays be used on front teeth?

Inlays and onlays are typically used on the chewing surfaces of back teeth (molars and premolars). For front teeth, other options like bonding or veneers may be more suitable, depending on the type and location of the damage.

How do I know if I need an inlay, an onlay, or a crown?

The choice between an inlay, onlay, or crown depends on the extent and location of the damage or decay. During your consultation, we’ll evaluate your tooth and recommend the option that best preserves its structure and meets your dental needs.

Book Your Appointment Today!

Let our caring team make your next visit effortless, and feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns—we’re here to support you every step of the way.