Inlays & Onlays
The strength of a crown, the conservatism of a filling. Custom porcelain inlays and onlays restore larger areas of damage while preserving more of your tooth.
About Inlays & Onlays
Inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations for back teeth with damage too large for a simple filling but not extensive enough to need a full crown. An inlay fits within the grooves of the tooth, while an onlay also covers one or more of the cusps (the raised points). Both are crafted from strong, natural-looking porcelain or ceramic.
Because they're made precisely in the lab (or by digital milling) and bonded into place, inlays and onlays are extremely strong, durable and well-fitting. They restore more biting strength than a large filling while conserving more healthy tooth structure than a crown.
Benefits
Stronger and longer-lasting than a large filling
More conservative than a full crown
Custom-fitted for an excellent seal and bite
Natural-looking porcelain or ceramic
Restores full chewing strength to back teeth
What to expect
We'll explain everything at each stage, so you always know what's happening and feel comfortable throughout.
- 01
Preparation
We remove decay or old filling material and shape the tooth to receive the restoration.
- 02
Digital impression
We capture a precise scan or impression so your inlay or onlay fits perfectly.
- 03
Custom fabrication
Your restoration is crafted from durable porcelain and colour-matched to your tooth.
- 04
Bonding
We check the fit and bite, then securely bond the inlay or onlay into place.
Is it right for you?
Inlays and onlays are ideal for back teeth with moderate decay or damage, cracked teeth, or where a previous large filling has failed but a full crown isn't necessary.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between an inlay and an onlay?expand_more
An inlay fits within the cusps of a tooth, while an onlay extends over one or more cusps to restore a larger area — sometimes called a partial crown.
Inlay/onlay or a filling — which do I need?expand_more
For small damage a filling is fine. For larger damage where you still want to preserve healthy tooth, an inlay or onlay offers greater strength and longevity.
How long do they last?expand_more
With good oral hygiene, porcelain inlays and onlays are very durable and can last many years.
Do they look natural?expand_more
Yes. They're made from tooth-coloured porcelain or ceramic and matched to your natural teeth.
Related treatments
Dental Fillings
Tooth-coloured fillings to repair cavities and restore teeth.
Learn morearrow_forwardCrowns & Bridges
Restore damaged or missing teeth with custom crowns and bridges.
Learn morearrow_forwardRoot Canal Treatment
Save infected teeth with gentle, effective root canal therapy.
Learn morearrow_forwardReady to get started?
Book a consultation for inlays & onlays at Eglinton Dental Care. We'll answer your questions and tailor a plan to your needs.