Why Might I need a dental Inlay or dental Onlay? 

Smaller areas of decay and damage can generally be repaired with composite resin restorations. Although the very latest composite resins are strong, hard wearing and beautiful, they are not quite resilient enough for repairing large cavities in back teeth. For these occasions we will suggest using an inlay or onlay. These restorations are made from porcelain so they are stronger than composite resin and more able to withstand the forces created during chewing.

An inlay or onlay will restore both strength and structure to the damaged tooth, repairing it almost invisibly. Porcelain restorations are more hard-wearing than composite resin restorations and will not stain. They are made on-site with our CEREC milling unit and CEREC digital camera. This eliminates the need for impressions, temporary restorations and a second visit with a second injection. With proper care, your new inlay or onlay should last for many years before it eventually needs to be replaced.

What is the Difference between an Inlay and Onlay? 

Each is very similar as both replace the central chewing surfaces of back teeth. Onlays are larger than inlays, as an onlay can also replace any cusps that have been damaged. Tooth cusps are the raised points located on the outer and inner edges of teeth.