Preserve More of Your Natural Tooth

When a cavity or damage is too large for a simple filling but a full crown would remove too much healthy tooth structure, inlays and onlays offer the perfect middle ground. These custom-crafted restorations provide excellent strength and aesthetics while conserving your natural tooth.

Understanding Inlays and Onlays

Inlays

An inlay fits within the cusps (raised points) of a tooth. It replaces damaged tooth structure in the centre of the chewing surface. Think of it as a precisely fitted puzzle piece that restores the tooth from within.

Onlays

An onlay extends over one or more cusps of the tooth. Sometimes called a partial crown, it covers and protects a larger area while still preserving more tooth structure than a full crown would require.

Inlay/Onlay Pricing

Restoration TypePrice
Ceramic Inlayfrom 350 EUR
Ceramic Onlayfrom 400 EUR

Final price depends on size and complexity. Free consultation included.

Benefits of Inlays and Onlays

  • Preserve maximum natural tooth structure
  • Stronger and more durable than composite fillings
  • Perfect colour match to natural teeth
  • Resist staining better than composite
  • Long-lasting – typically 15-30 years
  • Less invasive than full crown preparation

The Treatment Process

Visit 1: Preparation

Your dentist removes decay and damaged tooth structure, then takes precise digital impressions. A temporary filling protects your tooth while your custom inlay or onlay is fabricated in our laboratory.

Visit 2: Bonding

Your ceramic restoration is carefully checked for fit and colour match. It is then permanently bonded to your tooth using advanced adhesive techniques, creating a strong, seamless restoration.

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Inlays/Onlays vs Other Options

Unlike composite fillings that shrink over time and may develop gaps, ceramic inlays and onlays maintain their shape permanently. Compared to crowns, they require less tooth removal – preserving your natural tooth structure. They are the ideal choice for moderate-sized restorations on back teeth.

Caring for Your Restoration

Care for inlays and onlays just like natural teeth – brush twice daily and floss regularly. Ceramic restorations are stain-resistant but avoid using your teeth as tools or biting very hard objects. Regular check-ups ensure long-term success.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an inlay and an onlay?

An inlay fills the space between the cusps of a tooth, while an onlay extends over one or more cusps. Both are more conservative than full crowns, preserving more natural tooth structure.

When are inlays/onlays recommended?

They are ideal for moderate decay or damage that is too large for a filling but does not require a full crown. Perfect for restoring molars and premolars with cavities or old failing fillings.

What materials are used for inlays and onlays?

We primarily use ceramic materials like porcelain and zirconia. These match your natural tooth colour, are highly durable, and bond strongly to your tooth for long-lasting results.

How long do inlays and onlays last?

With proper care, ceramic inlays and onlays can last 15-30 years. They are more durable than composite fillings and preserve more tooth structure than crowns.

Is the procedure painful?

No, the procedure is done under local anaesthesia so you feel no pain. The process involves less drilling than a crown, making it gentler on your tooth.

Patient Reviews

4.9 out of 5 based on 433 reviews
Niall Egan
November 20, 2025
The waiting area is comfortable and appointments run on time. Great inlays/onlays.
Evan Wilson
November 19, 2025
They speak multiple languages which helped my mother with her inlays/onlays.
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