An inlay is a small filling that fits into the biting surface of a tooth. An onlay covers a larger area of the tooth and is better suited to bigger cavities. Gold was traditionally used for these types of restorations. However, in recent times hard-wearing tooth-coloured porcelain has become a more popular choice of material. This is a more aesthetic way to restore the teeth and creates a more natural-looking smile. Here is how they work:

1.

After an impression is made of your tooth, the inlay or onlay will be made in a dental laboratory by a technician.

2.

While these are being made, you will wear a temporary filling. When your inlay or onlay is ready we will bond it into place using a special adhesive, after removing the temporary filling. Your restored tooth will not only look like a real tooth but also function like one, allowing you to bite, chew and eat without any discomfort.

Thanks to advances in digital technology (called CAD/CAM) porcelain inlays can be made at some dental practices using a special milling machine known as CEREC. This means you will need fewer visits to the dentist to have your tooth restored.

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