Inlays and Onlays in London | Durable, Aesthetic Restorations
Inlays and onlays are custom restorations used when a filling is not enough but a crown is too much. They restore function and appearance with precision. At Attelia London, we combine advanced materials, technology, and patient‑focused care for lasting results.
-
Restores larger cavities securely
-
Stronger than standard fillings
-
More conservative than crowns
-
Blend seamlessly with smile
-
Long-term durability assured
Halit Dervis
Clinic Manager | GDC: 301171
Protect and strengthen damaged teeth.
Inlays and onlays protect teeth with moderate damage, preventing fractures, restoring function, and maintaining your natural smile for years to come.
What are Inlays and Onlays?
Customised Restorations Explained Clearly
Inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations crafted to repair cavities too large for fillings but not severe enough for crowns. Designed from porcelain or composite, they are bonded securely, restoring strength, comfort, and aesthetic harmony while preserving maximum natural tooth structure.
When are Inlays and Onlays the Best Choice?
Indications and Patient Advantages
Inlays and onlays are advised when cavities are too extensive for a filling, yet a full crown would remove more healthy tooth than necessary.They provide durable, aesthetic reinforcement that restores strength and comfort while preserving natural structure for the long term, with predictable longevity.
-
Large cavity unsuitable for filling
-
Replacement of failing old filling
-
Cracked cusp needing reinforcement
-
Tooth requiring added strength
Inlays and onlays combine strength and aesthetics, ensuring long-term tooth protection with minimally invasive, precision treatment at Attelia London.
Materials Used for Inlays & Onlays
Strength, Aesthetics, Longevity
Inlays and onlays may be crafted from porcelain, composite resin, or gold. Porcelain offers strength and aesthetics, composite is versatile and conservative, while gold provides durability though is less aesthetic for visible teeth.
-
Porcelain for strength and beauty
-
Composite for versatility and bonding
-
Gold for unmatched durability
-
Choice tailored to clinical need
Your dentist will recommend the most suitable material after clinical assessment, balancing strength, function, tooth location, aesthetics, and your personal preference.
How the Procedure Works
Step-by-Step Explained Clearly
-
Decay or damage assessed.
-
Tooth prepared and impression taken.
-
Laboratory fabricates custom inlay/onlay.
-
Temporary restoration placed.
-
Permanent inlay/onlay bonded securely.
-
Bite adjusted and polished for comfort.
The procedure typically requires two visits. First, preparation and impressions are completed, followed by lab fabrication. At the second visit, the inlay or onlay is bonded, ensuring a precise fit and lasting protection.
Maintenance and Durability
Keeping Results Long‑Lasting
With daily brushing, flossing and routine check‑ups, inlays and onlays can last 10–15 years or more. Avoiding hard foods, grinding, and excess sugar prolongs life. Night guards may protect against wear.
Professional reviews and cleaning help maintain durability, function and aesthetics for many years.
Cost Comparison and Value
Balancing Investment and Longevity
Inlays and onlays cost more than fillings but provide greater longevity and aesthetic results, making them a valuable investment.
-
Crown / Onlay
Custom made restoration to rebuild or strengthen damaged teeth. Available in composite or ceramic materials.
-
Direct Composite Onlay
Chairside placed composite onlay alternative completed in one visit.
-
Lab Made Provisional Crown
Temporary crown provided while the permanent restoration is fabricated.
-
Deep Margin Elevation
Margin lift procedure when cavity extends below gum level.
-
Surgical Deep Marginal Elevation
Advanced margin lift performed with surgical access when needed.
FAQs About Inlays & Onlays
Common Patient Questions Answered
Here are answers to the questions patients most often ask about inlays and onlays at our London clinic.
