Restorative Dentistry
Onlays & Inlays
Mount Druitt
A natural-looking alternative to fillings
Porcelain onlays and inlays treat large cavities that are too extensive for a conventional filling — but don't yet require a full crown. They preserve more of your natural tooth structure while delivering superior strength and aesthetics.
- Full examination and digital X-rays
- Precise tooth preparation under local anaesthetic
- Digital impressions for an accurate fit
- Custom laboratory-fabricated restoration
- Final bonding and bite adjustment
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How We Help
The Smart Option Between a Filling and a Crown
When a cavity is too large for a filling but the tooth doesn't need a full crown, an inlay or onlay is the ideal solution. These indirect restorations are fabricated in a dental laboratory from precise impressions of your tooth, then bonded permanently — resulting in a stronger, better-fitting restoration than a filling placed directly in the chair.
Porcelain restorations are virtually invisible, matching the colour and translucency of your natural tooth exactly. They are also more resistant to wear and staining than composite resin fillings.
Inlays and onlays are an especially good choice when old, large fillings need replacing — preserving the maximum amount of healthy tooth structure and avoiding the need for a full crown.
Custom-crafted by specialist ceramicists. Every inlay and onlay is individually designed and fabricated for your tooth — no two are the same.
The Process
What to Expect at Your Appointments
Typically two appointments — one to prepare and one to fit your custom restoration.
Examination & Planning
We assess the extent of damage and determine whether an inlay or onlay is the most appropriate restoration for your tooth.
Tooth Preparation
The tooth is prepared under local anaesthetic, removing decay and shaping the cavity. Precise digital impressions are taken.
Laboratory Fabrication
Your custom porcelain restoration is crafted by a specialist ceramicist for a precise fit and natural appearance.
Fitting & Bonding
The finished inlay or onlay is bonded permanently to your tooth and adjusted for a perfect bite — leaving it virtually invisible.
Why It Matters
The Case for Inlays & Onlays
A stronger, longer-lasting restoration that protects your natural tooth for the long term.
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Stronger than a conventional filling — indirect restorations bond more effectively to tooth structure.
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Lifespan for a well-maintained porcelain inlay or onlay with regular check-ups.
Less
Tooth structure removed compared to a full crown — preserving more of your natural tooth.
FAQs
Common Questions
An inlay fits within the cusps (raised points) of the tooth — essentially filling the inside of the chewing surface. An onlay extends over one or more cusps to restore a broader area. Both are stronger and more durable than standard fillings.
We recommend inlays and onlays when a cavity is too large for a conventional filling to restore adequately, but the tooth doesn't require a full crown. They're also ideal when old large fillings need replacing and more natural tooth structure can be preserved.
With good oral hygiene and regular check-ups, porcelain inlays and onlays can last ten or more years — often longer. They are significantly more durable than direct composite fillings.
Typically two appointments. At the first visit, the tooth is prepared and impressions are taken. The restoration is fabricated at our dental laboratory and fitted at the second appointment.
Yes. Inlays and onlays are typically covered under dental extras. We use HICAPS for instant on-the-spot claiming so you only pay the gap.
Also Under General Dentistry
Other Services You May Need
Tooth Fillings
Restore decayed or damaged teeth
Dental Crowns
Full coverage for heavily damaged teeth
Dental Check-Up
Professional check-up, clean and polish
Root Canal Treatment
Save an infected tooth comfortably
Gum Disease Treatment
Protect the foundation of your smile
Emergency Dental
Same-day relief when it matters most