Sometimes a cavity may be too large to repair using a dental filling, but the tooth is viable enough that a crown is unnecessary.
In these cases, your dentist may recommend a partial crown, better known as an inlay or onlay or indirect filling.
What is an inlay, and how does it differ from an onlay?
Inlays and onlays are custom-made in our dental lab from a tooth-coloured ceramic material and bonded to your tooth. An inlay fits inside the cavity between the cusps or the top edges of the tooth. An onlay is slightly larger and extends over one or both cusps of the tooth, providing additional support.
How long before I need to replace inlays or onlays?
With twice-a-year visits to the dentist for an exam and cleaning, and practising good daily oral hygiene, your inlay or onlay can last over 20 years.
If you would like to find out more about this treatment Contact us on 02920 889 305
