About Inlays & Onlays
Dental decay and cavities are very common dental issues that are often treated with a filling. Bacteria can break down the hard structure of the teeth as they create an acidic environment which wears away the enamel. Molars are particularly susceptible as the fissures and groves provide spots for sugary deposits to get trapped and allow bacteria to develop, attacking the tooth. In some cases where this happens, a tooth may need more than a filling for the dentist to restore the tooth to its proper appearance. Inlays and onlays can replace the part of the tooth lost to decay.
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What are Inlays and Onlays?
Unlike fillings, inlays and onlays are made in a dental laboratory from porcelain. Using digital scans of your treated tooth, the dental technicians create a bespoke restoration to fill the part of the tooth that has been removed. Inlays fit in the middle of the molar between the cusps, which are the raise peaks at the corners of the tooth. Onlays can replace a cusp and fits on the tooth. Both are cemented in place, repairing the tooth.
What is involved with having an inlay or onlay fitted?
Having a dental cavity treated is a relatively straight-forward procedure and should take no more than two appointments to sort. At De-ientes Dental, we use digital impressions to capture 3D images of your teeth. It’s a much better alternative than the moulds and models of the past, creating a much more relaxed and interesting experience in the dental chair.
1. Assessment
The decision to have an inlay or onlay will come as a result of a check-up with your dentist. Following an assessment, your dentist will be in a position to determine what type of restorative treatment will best repair the tooth. We may need to take x-rays to check on the internal structure of the tooth and make sure that there are no signs of infection. We will then book appointments for your treatment.
2. Treating the dental decay
For the first appointment, we will remove the decayed part of the tooth. Using local anaesthetic, we make sure you’re completely comfortable for the procedure. Once only healthy tooth remains, we clean and disinfect the tooth to make sure that there is no bacteria left to cause any further problems.
3. Digital scans
We then use an intra-oral 3D camera to take digital impressions of the tooth. These are used to create the inlay or onlay.
4. Making the inlay or onlay
The dental laboratory will then receive your digital scans. Using these, they can craft your custom-made inlay or onlay using porcelain. Modern dental materials are more durable than ever and look more natural. The inlay or onlay will be colour-matched to blend in with the rest of the tooth.
5. Fitting
Once we receive the inlay or onlay from the dental laboratory, we can see you for the fitting. Using a dental adhesive, we fix the inlay or onlay in place. We will have to use a dam to keep moisture away while we fix in place. Once secure, we rinse away any excess adhesive and check the fit.
6. Aftercare
Inlays and onlays should last around ten or more years if looked after. While porcelain is resistant to bacteria and will not decay like natural tooth enamel, you will still need to keep the restoration clean. Porcelain isn’t as strong as enamel so take care to not bite directly on hard foods. Thankfully, if your inlay or onlay does become damaged and you need a replacement, we will have your digital scans on hand and can easily arrange for a replacement.
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FAQs & Common Questions
Below are some of the most common questions we receive from patients considering their dental treatment. If you require any further information, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Inlays and onlays are dental restorations used to repair teeth that have moderate to severe decay or damage. They are typically made from materials such as porcelain, composite resin, or gold and are custom-made in a dental laboratory to fit the specific shape and size of the cavity. Inlays are used when the damage is within the cusps (bumps) of the tooth, while onlays are used when the damage extends to one or more cusps.
Fillings are used to repair small to moderately sized cavities, while inlays and onlays are used for larger cavities that cannot be adequately filled with traditional filling material. Crowns, on the other hand, cover the entire surface of a tooth and are typically used for more extensive damage or to strengthen a weak tooth. Inlays and onlays offer a conservative approach compared to crowns, as they require less removal of healthy tooth structure.
Inlays and onlays offer several advantages, including durability, longevity, and aesthetics. They are custom-made to match the colour and shape of your natural teeth, providing a seamless and natural-looking restoration. Additionally, because they are fabricated from high-quality materials, they can withstand chewing forces and are less prone to staining or discoloration compared to composite fillings. Furthermore, inlays and onlays require less removal of healthy tooth structure compared to crowns, preserving more of the natural tooth.
With proper care and maintenance, inlays and onlays can last for many years, typically ranging from 10 to 30 years or more. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing daily, can help prolong the lifespan of your inlays and onlays. Avoiding habits like teeth grinding or biting hard objects can also help prevent premature wear or damage to the restoration.
Inlays and onlays cost around £350-£500. It will depend on the case and number of appointments your treatment includes. You will be aware of the cost when your dentist drafts up a treatment plan before you go ahead with the treatment.
Coverage for inlays and onlays varies depending on your dental insurance plan and provider. Some insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost of inlays and onlays, while others may consider them a cosmetic procedure and offer limited or no coverage. It’s essential to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage options and any out-of-pocket expenses you may incur. Your dentist can also assist you in determining your insurance coverage and exploring alternative payment options if necessary.
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De-ientes Dental proudly serves patients across three welcoming locations: Golders Green, Bedford, and Clapham. Each practice offers a soothing, modern environment designed to help patients feel at ease, with minimalist interiors that reflect our commitment to compassionate service and advanced dental care. From the moment you arrive, our spaces embody our dedication to your comfort and well-being.
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Below is a list of our comprehensive dental services available at De-ientes Family Group Dental. We provide unique dental care, delivered by an experienced family of dentists and a caring team. Our practice has a rare atmosphere that will calm even the most nervous patient.
