What are inlays and onlays?
Inlays and onlays, often referred to as “indirect fillings”, are custom-made dental restorations designed for teeth that have suffered from moderate decay or damage. They differ in terms of where they’re placed. Inlays rest within the bumps on the biting surface of your tooth, whereas onlays are more extensive, covering one or more of these bumps, or cusps, or even the entire biting surface of your tooth.
They tend to be crafted from durable materials such as porcelain, gold, or composite resin. Offering a blend of strength and aesthetics, inlays and onlays ensure your smile remains intact for years to come.
How can my local dentist help with inlays and onlays?
Local dentists make the process of obtaining an inlay or onlay straightforward and hassle-free. By choosing a dental practice close to home, you can reduce travel time and enjoy the comfort of being treated within your community. Your local dentist will understand your individual needs and preferences as they build a strong relationship with you, ensuring a more tailored treatment experience.
Your local dentist practice will be equipped with cutting-edge technology, helping them to diagnose and treat any dental issues you may have - and in the instance where they don’t have access to what you need, they’ll be able to point you in the right direction. Your local dentist is perfectly positioned to provide you with custom inlays or onlays that will perfectly match your tooth in both shape and shade.
What’s involved in the procedure?
Consultation: The process begins with a thorough consultation. Your dentist will assess your damaged or decayed tooth, and determine whether an inlay or onlay is the best solution for you.
Tooth Preparation: Once your dentist is confident that an inlay or onlay is the right treatment for you, the decayed or damaged portion of your tooth will be removed. This ensures that the inlay or onlay will fit perfectly.
Impression Taking: A mould or digital impression of the prepared tooth will be taken, and this will serve as a blueprint for crafting the inlay or onlay.
Temporary Covering: Depending on the technology your dentist has access to, and the methodology they prefer, a temporary filling may be placed to protect the tooth while your inlay or onlay is being crafted, either in-house or at a dental lab.
Placement: Once it’s ready, the inlay or onlay will be carefully fitted onto your tooth, and bonded securely in place. Adjustments can then be made to ensure a perfect bite.
Inlays and onlays are powerful tools in the dental world, offering a middle ground solution for teeth that require more than a filling but less than a crown. With the expertise and advanced technologies found at your local dental practice, you can confidently choose inlays and onlays as a durable, aesthetically pleasing solution for dental repair.
Whether it’s the convenience of nearby treatment or the personalised touch of a trusted local medical professional, the benefits of getting your inlay or onlay treatment close to home are numerous. If you’re looking for a local dentist, use our postcode search tool to find your nearest surgery and book an appointment today.
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