Digital Inlays and Onlays
Digitally designed and milled porcelain restorations that rebuild larger cavities more durably and precisely than a standard filling.
Overview
Where a tooth has lost a lot of substance, a conventional filling is not always enough. Digital inlays and onlays — also known as porcelain fillings — are the treatment of choice for large cavities where a composite filling would risk fracture.
When are they used?
They may be chosen where a tooth has lost a great deal of substance, where decay reaches below the gum line, where wear is advanced, where there is a particular allergic reaction to filling materials, or where a new bite has to be built because of an occlusal problem.
How are they made?
The decay is cleaned out first and a three-dimensional image is taken with a digital camera. The design is done on screen; the restoration is milled from porcelain blocks and bonded into the cavity.
These steps are usually completed within a day, over as few as two appointments. What matters most is that the whole procedure follows a digital workflow and that the data is shared with the laboratory through three-dimensional scanners; these systems reduce possible errors to a minimum and produce porcelain fillings that fit exactly.
Why patients choose digital inlays and onlays
- Less tooth substance is removed than for a crown.
- The contact with neighbouring teeth is precise and the surface beautifully polished.
- Wear-resistant and good-looking.
- The digital workflow keeps possible errors to a minimum.
- Usually finished within a day, over two appointments.
Ready to start?
Book a consultation and we'll walk you through it, gently, and with no pressure.