Sometimes instead of having a filling your dentist may determine an inlay or onlay is suitable for repairing your damaged teeth. They are recommended for larger cavities or when there is insufficient tooth structure to support an amalgam or composite filling. Inlays and onlays are prepared by a dental laboratory and then cemented to the tooth in the surgery.
An Inlay sits in a hole in the tooth where as an onlay sits on the tooth and builds up its shape. Inlays and onlays can be made in tooth coloured porcelain, gold or a white filling material called composite.
Inlays and Onlays would require 2 appointments at least. On the first appointment the dentist will need to remove any old filling material or decay or damaged tooth and then take an impression on the tooth which will be sent off to the dental laboratory to build either an Inlay or Onlay.
A temporary filling will be used protect the tooth until your next appointment. On your second appointment the temporary filling will be removed and either an Inlay or Onlay will be glued in place. Small adjustments will be made by the dentist so that the tooth is comfortable to bite on.
North Hill Dental
46 North Hill
Colchester
Essex, CO1 1PY
TEL: 01206 577 912
Fax: 01206 216157
North Hill Dental
Layer Road
172 Layer Road.
Colchester,
CO2 9LA
TEL: 01206 570 381