Dental Inlays & Onlays in Edinburgh

Repair damaged teeth with durable inlays & onlays in Merchiston, Edinburgh. Natural look, long-lasting results. Book your appointment at Ardmillan Dental today.

When do you need dental inlays and onlays?

Dental inlays and onlays are used to repair a tooth when a traditional filling is not adequate or the damage is not significant enough to merit a dental crown. Dental inlays and onlays are similar, inlays are used to fill in the space between the cusps on a tooth’s biting surface, onlays cover one or more cusps.

When you visit Ardmillan Dental Practice, your dentist will inspect your teeth, assess the level of decay, and decide whether dental inlays or onlays are the best approach. He or she will then discuss the best treatment options with you. Dental inlays and onlays have to be specially prepared so that they exactly fit the damaged tooth that they will be applied to. When you come in to have them fitted, your dentist will remove the affected portion of your damaged tooth and then attach the inlay or onlay as appropriate.

Which dental inlay or onlay is right for you?

Dental inlays and onlays can be made out of a variety of materials including gold, porcelain and composites. Dental porcelain is among the most popular choices, this material is very strong and retains the natural look of the tooth. Dental inlays and onlays should be brushed with fluoride toothpaste, just like normal teeth. This will ensure that they stay clean and that the surrounding tooth structure does not decay.

FAQs

  • An inlay is used when there is no damage to the cusp of the tooth, and the inlay can simply be placed right on the tooth. An overlay is used when the damage is a little more extensive. First, the decay will be removed from the tooth and a mold will be taken of the area and sent to a dental lab.

  • How long do onlays last? Onlays usually last between 10 to 15 years. Similar to many other dental restorations, onlays do not last a lifetime and may eventually need to be replaced. However, they are durable and long-lasting, providing you with a beautiful smile.