Precision Porcelain Inlays & Onlays
Laboratory-crafted ceramic restorations that repair large cavities when a filling is too small and a crown is too invasive.
About Your Treatment
When a molar tooth has extensive decay or damage that exceeds the capacity of a standard filling, but still has healthy enamel walls, an inlay or onlay provides the ideal conservative restoration.
Milled from solid porcelain or composite, inlays and onlays fit precisely into the prepared cavity like a puzzle piece, restoring full chewing strength while conserving valuable natural tooth structure.
What Does Dental Inlays & Onlays Include?
High-strength lab-milled ceramic or composite that reinforces remaining natural tooth walls.
Preserves significantly more healthy natural tooth structure than a traditional full crown.
Digitally designed to seal margins perfectly, preventing recurrent decay beneath restorations.
Colour-matched to your surrounding natural dentition with realistic translucency.
What Are Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are types of dental restorations made from porcelain, ceramic or composite resin. They are custom-crafted to fit your tooth exactly, and are bonded securely into place for a natural-looking and long-lasting result.
Inlays
fit within the grooves of a tooth's chewing surface — similar to a filling, but stronger and more precise.
Onlays
cover a larger area, extending over one or more cusps (the pointed parts of the tooth), offering extra support when the damage is more extensive.
We often use inlays and onlays for back teeth where strength and durability are key. They're ideal when a tooth has been weakened by decay or large fillings, but still has enough healthy structure to avoid a full crown.
Why We Recommend Inlays and Onlays
We believe in protecting your natural teeth wherever possible. Inlays and onlays allow us to do just that — by reinforcing what's already there, rather than removing and replacing it unnecessarily. Here's why they're often a better choice than large fillings:
At Hampshire Dental Care, we always plan your care with long-term outcomes in mind. We'll explain clearly when an inlay or onlay is the most suitable option, and make sure you're comfortable and informed before we begin.
- •They're stronger and more durable
- •They resist cracking and wear over time
- •They are precisely made for a perfect fit
- •They reduce the risk of needing more invasive treatment in future
What to Expect from the Treatment
Having an inlay or onlay placed is a straightforward process, usually completed over two visits.
1. Consultation and assessment
We'll begin by examining your tooth and taking digital X-rays or scans to assess the extent of damage or decay.
2. Preparation and impression
The affected area is cleaned and shaped, removing any damaged tissue. We then take a digital scan or impression to design your custom inlay or onlay.
3. Temporary restoration
We'll fit a temporary filling to protect the tooth while your custom piece is being made by the lab.
4. Fitting appointment
Once ready, your inlay or onlay is securely bonded into place. We'll adjust and polish it to ensure a perfect bite and natural feel.
The result is a smooth, strong and subtle restoration that restores both the appearance and function of your tooth.
Benefits of Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and onlays offer several advantages compared to traditional fillings or full crowns:
Strength and stability
They're made from tough materials that can withstand chewing forces for years.
Conservative treatment
More of your natural tooth is preserved compared to a crown.
Tight seal
Because they're bonded into place, they help prevent further decay and keep bacteria out.
Natural appearance
Tooth-coloured materials blend beautifully with your surrounding enamel.
Long-lasting results
With good care, inlays and onlays can last 10–15 years or longer.
We always take a personalised approach and will only recommend inlays or onlays if they're genuinely the best option for your tooth.
What to Expect at Every Step for Inlays & Onlays
We guide you through a gentle, structured experience designed for maximum comfort and clinical precision.
Assessment & Treatment Planning — Appointment 1
We carefully assess the damaged tooth and discuss whether a dental inlay or onlay is the most suitable option to restore its strength and function.
Gentle Tooth Preparation — Appointment 1
The tooth is comfortably numbed where required, and decay or damaged tissue is carefully removed while preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible.
Digital Scan or Impression — Appointment 1
A precise digital scan or impression is taken for your custom-made inlay or onlay, and a temporary restoration is placed to protect your tooth between appointments.
Bespoke Restoration Creation
Your inlay or onlay is individually crafted to achieve a precise fit and complement the natural shape, shade and function of your tooth.
Precision Fitting & Bonding — Appointment 2
At your second appointment, the temporary restoration is removed and your new inlay or onlay is carefully fitted, checked and securely bonded into place.
Bite Check, Polish & Aftercare — Appointment 2
Your bite is carefully checked and adjusted before the restoration is finely polished, with personalised aftercare advice to help protect your restored tooth.
Benefits of Dental Inlays & Onlays
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to frequently asked questions about Dental Inlays & Onlays.
Spread the Cost with Flexible Monthly Payments
Explore payment options tailored to your treatment and budget, with plans available for up to 36 months. Check your eligibility and estimated monthly payments using our Finance Calculator.
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