Inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations used to repair teeth that are too damaged for a standard filling but do not require a full crown. They are carefully crafted in a dental laboratory to fit precisely into the affected area of the tooth. Inlays are used within the grooves of the tooth surface, while onlays extend over one or more cusps to provide added strength and protection.
These restorations are made from durable materials such as porcelain or composite resin, offering both strength and a natural appearance. Inlays and onlays help restore the shape, function, and integrity of the tooth while preserving as much healthy structure as possible. They are a long-lasting solution that blends seamlessly with your natural smile.
They are used to repair teeth with moderate decay or damage when a standard filling is not enough.
An inlay fits within the grooves of the tooth, while an onlay covers one or more cusps of the tooth.
With good oral care, they can last 10–15 years or even longer.
No, the treatment is done under local anaesthetic, so it is usually comfortable.