Porcelain Inlays or Onlays are fillings made of porcelain that fit into or onto the tooth. They are used when the teeth require very large filling or when there is insufficient tooth structure to support a directly placed filling. Inlays and Onlays are custom made in the lab to fit into or over the tooth. The difference being that, whereas a standard filling is applied directly into your tooth and left to harden, Inlays and Onlays are custom-made at our lab and placed in the cavity.
Inlays are similar to fillings and are usually porcelain fillings that are then bonded to the cavity. On the other hand, Onlays restore the biting surfaces of a tooth. They are used when more of your tooth is damaged or when we need to change its shape or position.
Inlays and Onlays are more resistant to biting forces than other types of fillings but also have other benefits:
Anyone with a large tooth cavity caused by decay or damage to the tooth may need a filling, Inlay or Onlay. The position and size of the cavity will influence the type of restoration needed. After an initial consultation at Gosforth Dental Surgery, your dentist will be able to advise you about the best treatment options to restore teeth.
It depends on the type of material used and the oral hygiene standards. From the studies and our experience at our Newcastle dental practice, If you maintain a good level of oral hygiene and don’t grind your teeth, you can expect your Inlay or Onlay to last between 5 and 15 years.
The alternatives to dental Inlays and Onlays is in the type of materials used to create the filling, such as gold, composite resin or porcelain. Your dentist at Gosforth Dental Surgery can advise you on the different types of restorations, and will answer any questions that you have about the procedures.