Inlays & Onlays
The strength of a crown, the conservatism of a filling. Custom porcelain inlays and onlays restore larger areas of damage while preserving more of your tooth.
Overview
About Inlays & Onlays
Inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations for back teeth with damage too large for a simple filling but not extensive enough to need a full crown. An inlay fits within the grooves of the tooth, while an onlay also covers one or more of the cusps (the raised points). Both are made from strong porcelain or ceramic, colour-matched to your tooth.
Because they're made precisely in the lab (or by digital milling) and bonded into place, inlays and onlays are extremely strong, durable and well-fitting. They restore more biting strength than a large filling while conserving more healthy tooth structure than a crown.
Benefits
How it helps
Stronger and longer-lasting than a large filling
More conservative than a full crown
Custom-fitted for an excellent seal and bite
Colour-matched porcelain or ceramic
Restores full chewing strength to back teeth
What to expect
How it works
We'll explain everything at each stage, so you always know what's happening and feel comfortable throughout.
- Step 01
Preparation
We remove decay or old filling material and shape the tooth to receive the restoration.
- Step 02
Digital impression
We capture a precise scan or impression so your inlay or onlay fits accurately.
- Step 03
Custom fabrication
Your restoration is crafted from durable porcelain and colour-matched to your tooth.
- Step 04
Bonding
We check the fit and bite, then securely bond the inlay or onlay into place.
Is it right for you?
Inlays and onlays are ideal for back teeth with moderate decay or damage, cracked teeth, or where a previous large filling has failed but a full crown isn't necessary.
FAQs
Questions about Inlays & Onlays
An inlay fits within the cusps of a tooth, while an onlay extends over one or more cusps to restore a larger area — sometimes called a partial crown.
For small damage a filling is fine. For larger damage where you still want to preserve healthy tooth, an inlay or onlay offers greater strength and longevity.
With good oral hygiene, porcelain inlays and onlays are very durable and can last many years.
Yes. They're made from tooth-coloured porcelain or ceramic and matched to your natural teeth.
Book this treatment
Inlays & Onlays
Most private health-fund rebates processed on the spot.
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