Inlay, Onlay

When a tooth is damaged by decay or fracture, but not to the extent that it requires a crown, an inlay or onlay may provide an effective restorative solution. These treatments are often described as a middle ground between dental fillings and crowns, offering strength and durability while preserving as much of the natural tooth as possible.

Inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations, designed in a dental laboratory and then bonded securely to the affected tooth. They are crafted from materials such as porcelain, composite resin, or sometimes gold, depending on the needs of the patient and the clinical recommendation.

At Alpha Dental Group, inlays and onlays are offered as part of a comprehensive approach to restoring teeth and maintaining oral health. They are often recommended when a standard filling may not be strong enough, but a full crown would be more treatment than the tooth requires.

‍

What Are Inlays and Onlays?

‍

Inlays

‍

An inlay is used when the damage is confined within the cusps (the raised points) of a tooth. It fits neatly into the prepared space, providing a stable and strong replacement for the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth.

‍

Onlays

Onlays, sometimes called “partial crowns,” cover a larger portion of the tooth. They extend beyond the cusps, helping to restore both the function and structure of the tooth while avoiding the need for a full crown. Both restorations are designed to blend seamlessly with the natural tooth, ensuring a discreet and functional outcome.

‍

‍

When Are Inlays and Onlays Needed?

Inlays and onlays may be recommended in several scenarios, such as:

• When a tooth has moderate decay that cannot be treated with a regular filling, it is considered a cavity.
• When a large filling is failing or has weakened the tooth.
• For restoring teeth that have cracked but still retain sufficient healthy structure.
• When a crown would involve removing too much of the natural tooth.

They are particularly effective in molars and premolars, where chewing forces are greatest.

‍

The Treatment Process

‍

Consultation and Assessment

‍

The process begins with a clinical assessment and, if needed, diagnostic imaging. This allows the dentist to determine whether an inlay, an onlay, or another form of restoration is the most suitable treatment.

‍

Tooth Preparation

‍

Once the decision has been made, the damaged or decayed part of the tooth is carefully removed, and the area is shaped to receive the restoration. An impression or digital scan is then taken, which is used to create a custom restoration in the dental laboratory.

‍

Temporary Protection

‍

In some cases, a temporary filling may be placed to protect the prepared tooth while the final restoration is being made.

‍

Placement of the Inlay or Onlay

‍

At a subsequent appointment, the custom-made inlay or onlay is bonded to the tooth with dental adhesive. The restoration is then polished and adjusted for a comfortable bite.

‍

Materials Used for Inlays and Onlays

• Porcelain: Offers excellent aesthetics, as it can be colour-matched to the natural tooth.
• Composite resin: Provides a natural look and is less costly than porcelain, though not as durable.
• Gold: Highly durable and long-lasting, though more visible than tooth-coloured materials.

The choice of material depends on the location of the tooth, the patient’s preference, and the functional demands of the restoration.

‍

Advantages of Inlays and Onlays

Inlays and onlays provide several benefits over traditional fillings and, in some cases, crowns:

• Strength: They are highly durable and can withstand significant chewing pressure.
• Preservation: They allow for the conservation of more natural tooth structure compared to crowns.
• Aesthetics: Tooth-coloured materials can be matched closely to natural enamel.
• Longevity: With good oral hygiene and care, they can last many years.
• Fit: Being custom-made, they offer a precise fit that enhances both function and comfort.

Caring for Inlays and Onlays

‍

Maintaining inlays and onlays is similar to caring for natural teeth. Regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste, daily flossing, and routine dental check-ups are essential. Patients should also avoid habits that can damage restorations, such as biting on hard objects.

If properly cared for, inlays and onlays can remain functional and aesthetically pleasing for a long time.

‍

Possible Alternatives

‍

While inlays and onlays are effective, alternatives may also be considered depending on the condition of the tooth:

• Dental fillings for smaller cavities.
• Crowns for teeth with extensive damage or weakened structure.
• Preventive care, such as fluoride treatments, is used to minimise the risk of decay in the first place.

Your dentist will discuss these options and help determine the most appropriate treatment.

‍

Book a Consultation at Alpha Dental Group

‍

Inlays and onlays provide a reliable and conservative solution for teeth that need more than a filling but less than a crown. They restore function, improve appearance, and support long-term dental health.

If you have a tooth that may require restoration, booking a consultation at Alpha Dental Group allows you to explore whether an inlay or onlay is the right choice for you. Our dental team will assess your needs, explain your options, and help you make an informed decision about your oral health.