Cosmetic Dental Services

Inlays and Onlays

Inlays and onlays are dental fillings that we use to restore a damaged or decayed tooth. Rather than regular fillings that are bonded directly on your teeth, inlays and onlays are premade outside of your mouth and then transferred. In some cases, fillings only need to restore a certain portion of the tooth. Inlays provide filling on the pits and fissures between the cusps, while onlays are used for one or more cusps that need restoration. If most of the tooth surface is damaged, however, we will recommend crowns to you instead.

Inlays and onlays were previously only made of gold material, which is durable, but not aesthetically pleasing. But today, porcelain and ceramic versions have become popular as they blend well with your natural teeth and make it difficult to even notice the restoration as a result. The material is also quite durable and suitable for back molars. With proper care and consistent visits to your dentist, restoration may last for over 10 or 15 years.

When regular fillings are not enough, we may create inlays and onlays from the mold of your tooth. Once they are ready, our dentists at Wortley Road Dental will apply them and cement them permanently in place in your teeth. We tend to think of these as an “indirect filling”.

To help avoid the need for any type of fillings, it is important to keep up with good oral hygiene practices. This includes regular brushing and flossing, as well as bi-annual checkups with your dentist. To book an appointment at our dental clinic, please call or email us. We will be happy to schedule a consultation and discuss your oral health. We can also answer any questions you may have regarding inlays and onlays. Contact us today to learn more!