Inlays & Onlays

Composite (tooth-coloured) fillings are a popular choice because they blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, making them virtually invisible. They’re ideal for repairing small to medium-sized cavities.

However, teeth endure significant pressure from chewing, and when a tooth is more heavily damaged, a filling may not always provide enough long-term strength. That’s where inlays and onlays can help.

• Inlays are custom restorations that fit within the cusps (the small bumps) of the tooth.
• Onlays are similar but extend over one or more cusps, offering more coverage and strength.

Both are custom-made, usually from porcelain, and designed to match the colour of your teeth. They are stronger and more durable than fillings, and they help protect and restore teeth without needing a full crown.

We may suggest an inlay or onlay if:

• The tooth has a larger cavity or moderate damage.
• A filling alone wouldn’t provide enough support.
• You want a long-lasting, natural-looking restoration.

Traditionally, inlays and onlays are made in a dental laboratory, which requires two visits.

Traditional process:

• First visit: The old filling and decay are removed, the tooth is cleaned and shaped, and an impression is taken. A temporary filling is placed while the lab creates your custom restoration.
• Second visit: The temporary is removed, and the final inlay or onlay is fitted and cemented in place.

Same-Day Onlays at MVDC
With our advanced CAD/CAM technology, we can design, mill, and fit your onlay in just one appointment. This means:

• No temporary filling needed.
• A permanent, tooth-coloured onlay is made and fitted on the same day.
• You leave with your tooth restored in a single visit.

• Stronger and longer-lasting than fillings.
• Matched to your natural tooth colour.
• Can last 10+ years with good oral hygiene and regular dental visits.
• Preserve more tooth structure compared to crowns.

Disclaimer: All dental procedures, including inlays and onlays, carry risks. Outcomes can vary depending on individual circumstances. A consultation with your dentist is necessary to determine the most appropriate treatment for your needs.