Inlays and Onlays (Broken Tooth)

Although inlays and onlays are both custom-made ceramic restorations, they are used to repair different amounts of tooth damage.

An inlay is recommended when:

• The damage is contained within the centre of the tooth

• The surrounding tooth structure remains strong

• A filling isn't strong enough, but a crown isn't needed

An onlay is recommended when:

• The damage extends over one or more of the tooth's biting edges (cusps)

• More of the tooth needs strengthening

• Extra protection is needed to withstand everyday chewing forces

Both treatments are custom-made to fit your tooth precisely, providing a strong, natural-looking restoration while preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible.

Ceramic inlays and onlays are designed to restore damaged teeth while preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible. They provide a strong, long-lasting solution when a filling isn't enough but a full crown isn't needed.

Benefits of ceramic inlays and onlays include:

• Preserving more natural tooth structure than a dental crown

• Restoring strength and function to weakened or cracked teeth

• Providing a precise, custom-made fit

• Blending naturally with your smile using colour-matched ceramic

• Offering excellent durability and resistance to wear and staining

• Helping protect the tooth from future cracks and damage

With proper care, ceramic inlays and onlays can provide a long-lasting, natural-looking restoration that supports your smile for many years.

An inlay or onlay may be the ideal treatment if you have:

• A cracked or fractured tooth

• A large cavity that is too extensive for a filling

• A large filling that has failed or worn out

• A weakened back tooth that needs additional strength

• Damage that doesn't require a full crown

During your examination, Dr. Matt will recommend the most conservative treatment that provides a predictable, long-term result.

The main advantage of an inlay or onlay is that it preserves more of your natural tooth than a dental crown. By replacing only the damaged area, it restores strength while maintaining as much healthy tooth structure as possible.

Compared with a dental crown, an inlay or onlay:

• Preserves more healthy tooth structure

• Restores strength and function without covering the entire tooth

• Provides a strong, long-lasting ceramic restoration

• Is ideal when the tooth is damaged but doesn't require full coverage

If a tooth has extensive damage, has undergone root canal treatment, or requires complete protection, a porcelain dental crown may be the better option. During your consultation, we'll recommend the most conservative treatment that provides a predictable, long-lasting result while protecting your natural tooth wherever possible.

Every smile is different, which is why every treatment begins with a personalised consultation.

We'll take the time to understand your priorities and goals, assess your oral health and recommend the treatment that's right for you.

During your consultation, we'll discuss:

• Your personalised treatment options

• Your expected treatment timeline

• Upfront treatment costs

• Available payment options and finance where applicable

Our goal is to make the process clear, transparent and stress-free, so you feel informed and confident before moving forward with your treatment.