Inlays and Onlays
A dental inlay or onlay is an aesthetic solution that restores function.
Repairing a cavity and removing the damaged portion of the tooth can require more than just a conventional filling to repair. When the damage is too extensive for a filling, but not so extensive that a crown is required, then an inlay or onlay may be recommended. This long lasting and aesthetic restoration will help to restore function to your teeth.
Benefits of Inlays and Onlays
- Protect Your Teeth
- Chew With Confidence
- Preserve Natural Teeth
- Aesthetic Restoration
What is an inlay or onlay?
A dental inlay is a small piece of porcelain that is designed to fit in the hole left following a deep cavity. These are commonly used to repair rear teeth after an extensive cavity. This option is preferable as it restores the chewing surface and helps to protect against further damage. An onlay is similar, but is used to build up the outer portion of the tooth.
There are three main types of inlays and onlays. They can be made from composite resin, metals or porcelain. Porcelain is the most aesthetic choice, as this will blend in with the surrounding teeth perfectly. Metals such as gold and silver are the most expensive and most durable option. Composite resin is often the cheapest option but may only be used in situations where the tooth is not subject to strong biting force.
Why might I need an inlay or onlay?
Inlays and onlays will help to protect and preserve your natural teeth following damage or decay. When a tooth suffers an extensive cavity, your dentist will need to remove the damaged portion of the tooth. This leaves the remaining tooth exposed to bacteria and will also leave it weakened. To prevent further damage, an inlay or onlay is used to restore function to the tooth.
This is a permanent solution to help protect damaged teeth and avoid the need for more extensive repairs such as crowns or veneers. This might also be recommended in the place of a traditional filling, as a filling won’t offer the same strength and support. The inlay or onlay should last a long time with the right care, but it may need to be replaced over time.
So happy with my new smile . Got all my confidence back. Don’t know how to thank them!
NHS Pricing bands
Transparent pricing for NHS treatments
Patient charges correct as of April 2023
We're accepting new NHS patients
Treatment Band One
- An examination and diagnosis (e.g. x-rays)
- Advice on how to prevent future problems
- A scale and polish, if required
If you need to see a dentist immediately, an urgent NHS appointment costs £23.80.
£26.80
Treatment Band Two
- Everything in band one, plus...
- Any further treatment such as fillings or root canal work
- Extractions, if your dentist needs to take out one or more teeth
£73.50
Treatment Band Three
- Everything in bands one and two, plus...
- Crowns, dentures or bridges
- This includes more complex procedures.
You only pay once for the highest treatment band, even if multiple treatments are required.
£319.10
Frequently asked questions
How can we help?
Dental restoration treatments are used to repair or replace damaged teeth. Common dental restoration treatments include fillings, crowns, bridges, and implants. Fillings are used to repair minor damage to the tooth structure, while crowns are used to cover and protect a damaged tooth. Bridges are used to replace missing teeth, and implants are used to replace missing teeth or to support a dental prosthesis.
The results of dermal filler injections typically last for several months. After that, the filler will gradually dissolve and be metabolised by the body.
Do you still have questions?
We offer excellent care and advice regarding our wide range of treatments to all of our patients.