Inlays are restorations that sit inside a hole in the tooth, much the same as a cavity filling. Onlays sit over the chewing surface of the tooth and build up its shape. Both are used to restore teeth as well as to improve their appearance. Unlike cavity fillings, inlays and onlays are bespoke for the tooth that they are to cover and are created in a laboratory before being cemented in place. 

You have the benefit of being able to choose which material you would like your inlays or onlays to be created from. The options include tooth-coloured porcelain, composite or gold. Different materials are suitable for different parts of the mouth and teeth, and your Riverside Dental dentist will be happy to help you decide which material is best for your treatment. 

You may need to have any old filling material, along with any decayed or damaged areas of the tooth removed. If this is the case, you will be given local anesthetic to prevent you from experiencing any discomfort. However, the actual process of fitting your inlays or onlays is painless. 

Since inlays and onlays are custom designed, we will need to take impressions of your teeth which will then be sent to the laboratory for the creation of your restoration. 

The process to get inlays/onlays takes place over several steps:

• If you have any old fillings or decay to remove, this is done using anesthetic.
  

• Impressions are taken of the mouth to record the shape of the tooth being repaired and the teeth surrounding it. Your dentist will also take a mould of the opposing arch so that the technician can see how you bite together.
  

• Your dentist will take note of the shade of your teeth.
  

• Your inlays/onlays are created in the laboratory and you’ll be fitted with a temporary filling to protect the tooth in the meantime.
  

• You’ll return to Riverside Dental for the restoration to be glued to your tooth. Small adjustments may be needed to ensure that the tooth is comfortable to bite on.
  

There are a number of benefits associated with inlays/onlays, including:

• They are customised to fit a specific tooth.
  

• They can be colour-matched to your teeth making them very discreet.
  

• The treatment is largely non-invasive.
  

• They are strong and can last longer than fillings.
  

Inlays and onlays are usually more durable and longer lasting than conventional fillings. 

Inlays and onlays at Riverside Dental start at £1075. If you are concerned about the cost of treatment, our flexible payment plans* could help. Please speak to our Norwich dental practice to enquire. 

*Term and conditions apply.