Inlays & Onlays
Precise restoration for moderately damaged teeth
What to expect
Inlays and onlays are precise, aesthetic dental restorations milled from reinforced porcelain in a lab and bonded to the treated tooth. These restorations represent the gold standard in tooth restoration, intended to restore damaged teeth and often make it possible to restore the tooth while avoiding the need for root canal treatment.
The restoration is personally tailored to the tooth's structure, restoring function, shape, and color precisely and conservatively. The treatment combines high precision with preservation of existing tooth tissue.
Who the treatment suits
The treatment suits patients with teeth that have lost tooth material, whether from decay or a fracture — particularly when a regular filling doesn't provide an optimal solution, but a full crown and the risk of needing root canal treatment can still be avoided. Suitability is determined after professional diagnosis, examining the extent of damage and the tooth's condition.
What the treatment process looks like
Treatment begins with an exam and diagnosis of the tooth's condition and extent of damage. Based on the findings, the appropriate type of restoration is planned.
In the first stage, usually under local anesthesia, the tooth is prepared, the damaged tissue is removed, and medicinal materials are applied to help the remaining tissue heal optimally. A precise measurement is taken of the remaining tooth material and tooth color, and in many cases a temporary restoration is fitted while the permanent restoration is prepared in the lab.
At a further appointment, the restoration is bonded to the tooth, with precise fitting of shape, color, bite, and comfort.
Benefits of the treatment
- A precise solution for restoring lost tooth material without needing root canal treatment
- Preservation of existing tooth structure
- High personal customization
- Improved strength and durability compared to a filling
- Natural appearance that blends with the tooth
Inlays and onlays make it possible to restore teeth precisely and conservatively, when a more stable solution than a filling is needed. The clinic emphasizes correct fitting, careful planning, and precise execution — to preserve the natural tooth and ensure a quality result over time.At the clinic, careful attention is paid to matching the type of restoration to the tooth's condition, aiming to choose the most precise solution. The treatment is carried out using advanced technologies and in cooperation with quality labs. The emphasis is on careful planning, precise execution, and preserving the natural tooth as much as possible, as part of a long-term conservative approach.
FAQs
What's the difference between an inlay and an onlay?
- An inlay restores the internal part of the tooth, while an onlay also covers more of the tooth's outer parts.
When is this treatment chosen?
- When the damage to the tooth is too extensive for a filling, but a full crown can still be avoided, or when there are high aesthetic requirements.
Is the treatment painful?
- The treatment is usually done under local anesthesia and isn't accompanied by pain.
How long does the process take?
- Usually two appointments are needed — one for preparation and one for bonding.
Does the restoration look natural?
- Yes, the restoration is matched to the tooth's color and structure for a natural appearance.
How long does an inlay or onlay last?
- The restoration can last many years, depending on maintenance and oral hygiene.
How do you care for the restoration?
- Maintaining good oral hygiene, keeping up the rest of the teeth to avoid concentrated forces acting on the restored tooth, and periodic checkups.