Inlays and Onlays in Marylebone and Central London.

• Inlays and onlays tend to provide a stronger finish than fillings
• They also last longer – you can expect your inlay or onlay to last up to 20 years
• They provide a tighter seal to your real tooth which can protect it from further decay
• They can be made to match your surrounding teeth for a natural finish
• They allow you to eat normally
• They can help you to avoid more invasive dental procedures

The procedure will require at least two visits to your dentist. During your first session, your dentist will apply local anaesthesia to the area to be treated before preparing the tooth so it is ready for the inlay or onlay. If you already have an existing filling, your dentist will remove this, as well as removing any parts of your tooth that are suffering from decay. Your dentist will preserve as much of your natural tooth as possible.

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Once the preparation work has been done, your dentist will take an impression of your tooth and send it to the dental lab, where your bespoke inlay or onlay will be made using the material of your choice, such as composite or porcelain. While you are waiting for your inlay or onlay, your dentist is likely to apply a temporary filling to protect your tooth.

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During a follow‑up visit, your temporary filling will be removed and your dentist will make sure your inlay or onlay fits properly before they seal it in place with dental cement. If it is not quite a perfect fit, your dentist will be able to make minor adjustments to ensure your new inlay or onlay blends in well with your existing teeth.

Like fillings, inlays and onlays are a type of restorative dentistry, but unlike traditional fillings which are created by your dentist, they are manufactured in a dental lab. While the standard filling procedure can be faster, an inlay or onlay could be a better option in the long‑term if your tooth has extensive damage. If you have a large tooth cavity or you have an old filling which is no longer offering your tooth the protection it needs, you can chat to our dentists about whether an inlay or onlay could be the best option for you.

Inlays and onlays are designed to look and function like natural teeth. With daily brushing and flossing, in addition to regular professional cleaning and dental check‑ups, your restored tooth can last for many years.