These hard-wearing restorations can be used in teeth that cannot be repaired with a normal filling. They are custom-made by our expert technicians, from an impression taken of the teeth.

Inlays are bonded within the cavity, whereas onlays cover one or more of the tooth’s cusps or completely cover the biting surface.

They are usually made from tooth-coloured materials, such as porcelain and composite resin, but gold alloy can be used if the damaged tooth is subject to heavy chewing forces.

The process is similar to that for a crown. We remove any areas of decay or old fillings and clean the tooth. We then take an impression and use this to create an inlay or onlay that will fit the cavity perfectly. When this is ready, we check for fit and bond it with a very strong adhesive. Inlays and onlays can last for many years with correct maintenance.