At Islington Smiles, our comprehensive range of restoration options includes inlays and onlays to help get you smiling again.
What are inlays and onlays?
Inlays and onlays are used in a similar fashion to either a filling or a crown to repair and restore a tooth that has become damaged in some way. This damage is often a result of advanced decay but can also be caused by injury or trauma to the face. They are most often used in situations where a filling or crown would not be suitable or would not suffice.
What is an inlay?
And inlay works in a similar way to a filling and is designed to fill a hole or cavity in a tooth. They are often used on teeth that are larger, such as those towards the back of the mouth, or where a simple filling has previously failed.
What is an onlay?
Onlays are designed to work in a similar way to a crown. They are used to repair damage done to the cusp of the tooth – i.e. the part of the tooth that is most visible. They are a more minimally invasive option than a crown, however, and require significantly less of the natural tooth to be removed during application. This can make them a more attractive and suitable option in some situations, especially at our preventive care focused practice.
What are they made of?
Both inlays and onlays can be made of a variety of materials, including gold, ceramic, porcelain, and composite resin. Composite resin has become increasingly popular in recent years as it is strong and durable as well as being natural-looking and aesthetically pleasing.
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