Inlays and Onlays are dental repair techniques to restore and strengthen damaged teeth.
What is an Inlay or Onlay?
Inlays and Onlays are custom-made dental repair inserts placed in or on damaged teeth. Frequently made from composite materials or metal, Inlays and Onlays are designed to reconstruct the shape and integrity of the tooth.
Inlays
An Inlay is a specially made insert that is bonded into the centre of a damaged tooth to fill gaps and strengthen the tooth.
Onlays
An Onlay is an insert that is applied to the exterior of a damaged or fractured tooth, giving strength and limiting further damage.
What is the treatment procedure for an Inlay or Onlay?
Your dentist will administer a local anaesthetic and then begin the preparation of the tooth to be treated. When damaged or decayed parts of the tooth have been removed, a dental impression will then be taken.
The Inlay or Onlay will then be made by the dental lab to exactly fit the space in the prepared tooth. At your next appointment, the insert will be positioned and then bonded in place. To complete the tooth restoration, the surface is smoothed and then polished for a comfortable bite and a pleasing aesthetic result.
