Dental inlay or onlay
inlay · onlay · ceramic inlay · dental post and core · indirect filling
An inlay is a strong piece made to fit the exact shape of the damaged part of a tooth. It is bonded in place instead of a large filling.
When a tooth is badly damaged and a regular filling may not hold.
⏱ Duration: usually 2 visits of about 1 hour; the inlay is usually made in a few days to 2 weeks
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Teeth. Brush your teeth before the visit.
- Food. Eat beforehand. After the shot, eating is awkward for a few hours.
What to bring
- Your ID
- X-rays of the tooth, if you have them
How it goes
- The tooth is numbed with a shot
- The dentist removes the old filling and decay, and shapes the tooth
- An impression or scan of the tooth is taken
- A temporary filling is placed
- At the second visit, the inlay is tried in and your bite is checked
- The inlay is bonded in and polished
What you'll feel
- A quick shot, then numbness
- Noise and vibration from the tools
- The tooth may ache a little for a couple of days
Afterwards
- Do not eat until the numbness wears off
- With the temporary filling, do not chew hard or sticky food on that side
- After the inlay is in, brush and care as usual
- Come for regular checkups
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Severe pain, or swelling of the gum or cheek
- The inlay is loose or has fallen out: keep it and book a visit
Common questions
Why is an inlay better than a filling?
It is stronger and fits the shape more exactly. It suits badly damaged teeth.
What are inlays made of?
Usually ceramic, composite, or metal. Your dentist will suggest the right one.
Does the nerve need to be removed?
Not always. It depends on the state of the tooth.