Inlays and onlays are porcelain fillings.
They are an alternative option to crowns and used when a substantial part of the tooth is cracked, decayed or when an old filling has become damaged of leaky.
Conservative Treatment For Your Smile
With an inlay or onlay, we will only need to remove a minimal amount of tooth structure when preparing your tooth. The inlay or onlay is then made to fit exactly into the cavity and is bonded into place, creating a strong and hard-wearing restoration enabling you to chew without fear of the tooth cracking or chipping. An inlay is designed to just repair the very central part of a back tooth whereas an onlay is a bit bigger, repairing one or more of your tooth cusps. If you take a look at your back teeth the cusps are the raised points on the tooth. Our high-quality porcelain inlays and onlays will blend in beautifully with your natural tooth colour, creating a restoration that is virtually invisible.
How Are Porcelain Onlays Added?
The procedure generally takes two appointments. During your first appointment, we will remove the damaged or decayed portion of the tooth, or the old filling and we will take a 3D scan. The design of the restoration is established, and our dental ceramist will create a porcelain inlay or onlay that is a perfect match for your tooth, and a perfect fit.
During your second visit a couple of weeks later, the inlay or onlay is bonded to the tooth. Once placed, your chewing ability will improve substantially.
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