Inlays and Onlays in Sevenoaks

Inlays and onlays are custom-made dental restorations used to repair teeth that have lost more structure than can usually be restored with a simple filling, but may not require a full dental crown.

At Sevenoaks Dental & Implant Centre, we provide inlay and onlay treatment for suitable patients in Sevenoaks and the surrounding area. Your dentist will assess the condition of the tooth and discuss the most appropriate restoration for your individual needs.

Depending on the extent and location of the damage, an inlay or onlay can restore the shape and function of a tooth while retaining suitable healthy tooth structure.

What Are Dental Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are restorations that are made separately from the tooth before being bonded or cemented into the prepared area.

An inlay generally fits within the prepared area of a tooth, while an onlay covers a larger area and may extend over one or more of the tooth’s cusps.

They are commonly considered for teeth that require more extensive restoration than a conventional filling can provide but where a full crown may not be necessary.

What Is a Dental Inlay?

A dental inlay is a custom-made restoration designed to fit within the prepared area of a tooth, usually around the grooves and central part of the biting surface.

Inlays can be considered when a tooth has moderate damage or decay and a direct filling is not considered the most appropriate restoration.

The exact design and material will depend on the tooth being treated and your individual treatment requirements.

What Is a Dental Onlay?

A dental onlay is a larger restoration that can extend over one or more cusps of a tooth.

An onlay may be considered when the tooth has lost more structure or when part of the biting surface requires additional coverage and support.

Your dentist will assess the remaining tooth structure and determine whether an onlay, inlay, filling or crown is the most appropriate option.

What Is the Difference Between an Inlay and an Onlay?

The main difference is the amount of the tooth that the restoration covers.

• Inlay: fits within the prepared area of the tooth and does not normally cover the cusps.
• Onlay: extends over one or more cusps and covers a larger area of the tooth.

Both are custom-made restorations and can be used to restore teeth affected by decay, damage or failing restorations where a conventional filling may not provide the required solution.

Benefits of Inlays and Onlays

Increased protection – compared to fillings inlays and onlaysreduce the risk of further damage or decay.
Durable – with proper care and attention inlays and onlays can last for longer than a traditional filling and are less likely to cause sensitivity.
A conservative treatment option – Inlays and Onlays allow as much of the natural tooth to be retained as possible, ensuring the long-term health and strength of the tooth.