Inlays & onlays.
When a tooth needs a little more support.
Sometimes a tooth needs more than a filling, but doesn't need a full crown.
Inlays and onlays provide a carefully planned way to restore a damaged or weakened tooth while retaining as much healthy tooth structure as possible.
At Claremont Dental, we'll assess the tooth and explain whether an inlay, onlay or another treatment is the most appropriate option for you.
What are inlays & onlays?
Inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations used to repair teeth that have been damaged or weakened.
An inlay fits within the grooves of a tooth, while an onlay extends over one or more of the tooth's cusps to provide additional support.
They're a more substantial restoration than a filling, but don't cover the entire tooth like a crown.
Is it right for you?
An inlay or onlay may be considered when a tooth has more damage or decay than can be reliably treated with a filling, but enough healthy tooth structure remains to avoid a full crown.
Your dentist will assess the condition of the tooth, its remaining structure and your bite before recommending the most appropriate restoration.
Our approach
Preserve what's healthy. Restore what's needed.
We believe the most appropriate treatment isn't always the biggest treatment.
Where an inlay or onlay can provide the support a tooth needs while preserving healthy tooth structure, it may be a suitable option.
We'll explain what we've found, why we're recommending a particular restoration and what alternatives may be available.
Thoughtful dentistry means treating the tooth - not simply treating the problem.
What to expect
We'll first assess the tooth and, where appropriate, use X-rays or other diagnostic tools to understand its condition.
If an inlay or onlay is recommended, the tooth is carefully prepared and measurements or digital scans are taken so the restoration can be custom-made.
Once it's ready, we'll fit the restoration, check your bite and make sure everything feels comfortable and natural.
We'll also explain how to care for your restored tooth.
Your questions answered
What's the difference between an inlay and an onlay?
An inlay sits within the grooves of a tooth, while an onlay extends over one or more of the tooth's cusps to provide additional support.
Why would I need an inlay or onlay instead of a filling?
If a tooth has more damage or decay than a filling can reliably restore, an inlay or onlay may provide greater strength while still preserving more of the natural tooth than a full crown.
Is an inlay or onlay better than a crown?
Neither is automatically better. The appropriate restoration depends on the condition of your individual tooth and how much healthy structure remains.
How long do inlays and onlays last?
Their lifespan depends on factors including the tooth, your bite, oral hygiene and how you care for your restoration. Regular check-ups allow us to monitor it over time.
Health funds
Claremont Dental accepts a wide range of major health funds.
Your level of cover will depend on your individual policy, so we recommend checking your available benefits before treatment.
You may also be interested in
Dental Crowns
Protecting and strengthening teeth that need more support. Learn more >
Regular Dental Checkups
Keeping an eye on your oral health and identifying problems early. Learn more >
Dental Fillings
Restoring teeth affected by decay or damage. Learn more >
Let's look after what's still healthy.
If you've been told a tooth needs more than a filling, we're here to help you understand your options and find the right level of treatment for your tooth.