What is an inlay?
An inlay is a small filling that fits into the biting surface of a tooth while an onlay covers a larger area of the tooth and is better suited to bigger cavities. For many years, gold has been used to make inlays and onlays because it is a hard material and lasts for a long time. Nowadays, tooth-coloured porcelain is also used and gives the restored tooth a more natural look, which many patients prefer.
Why have an inlay or onlay?
Inlays and onlays can be made in a dental laboratory by a technician, with the help of impressions taken of your teeth. While these are being made, you will wear a temporary filling. When your inlay or onlay is ready your dentist will glue it into place using a special adhesive, after removing the temporary filling.
Thanks to advances in digital technology (called CAD/CAM) porcelain inlays can be made at the dental practice using a special milling machine known as CEREC. This means you will need less visits to the dentist to have your tooth restored.
Find your local Together Dental Practice
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To be honest I wouldn't go anywhere else - Patient at Clacton Dental Care Ltd
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I'm so pleased that I joined this practice last year - Patient at Colchester Dental Care
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I was met with unfailing patience and professionalism from everyone - Patient at Reepham Road Dental Care
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I am honestly staggered by the prodigious kindness - Patient at Oradi Dental
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I am seriously impressed, especially with the price! - Patient at Colchester Dental Care
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Such wonderful staff so helpful nothing is too much for them - Patient at Clacton Dental Care Ltd
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Quite thorough treatment and explanation - Patient at Southend Dental Care
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Top marks again! - Patient at St Cuthberts Dental Care
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Used to hate going to the dentist but the staff here put you at ease - Patient at Clacton Dental Care Ltd
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I went in early for my appointment and cannot fault the service - Patient at Clacton Dental Care Ltd
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Great service as always - Patient at St Cuthberts Dental Care
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I had a awful experience with a local dentist went on line and found , it turned out a brilliant dentist - Patient at Country Park Dental Practice
