Dental Inlays and Onlays in London

When a tooth is too damaged for a filling but not in need of a full crown, inlays and onlays offer an ideal middle ground. These custom restorations repair and strengthen teeth while preserving as much natural structure as possible. At Thousand Smiles, we provide inlays, onlays, and overlays tailored to your needs, ensuring a natural appearance and long-lasting protection.

What Are Inlays and Onlays?

Inlay – sits inside the tooth, filling the chewing surface between the cusps (the raised points).
Onlay – covers the chewing surface and one or more cusps.
Overlay – sometimes called a partial crown, covering multiple cusps and part of the tooth surface.

All three are precision-made in a dental laboratory and then bonded to your tooth. They are often described as “indirect fillings” because they are crafted outside the mouth, unlike regular fillings that are applied directly in one visit.

When Are They Recommended?

Your dentist may suggest an inlay, onlay, or overlay if:

You have a cavity too large for a standard filling.
A filling would weaken the remaining tooth structure.
The tooth is cracked or worn but still has enough healthy tissue to avoid a crown.
You want a more durable, longer-lasting alternative to traditional fillings.

These restorations are strong, reliable, and can restore both function and appearance.

Think you may need an inlay or onlay? Call Thousand Smiles today on 020 3773 2280 to book your consultation.

020 3773 2280

Inlays and Onlays vs Fillings

Durability – inlays and onlays can last decades, while composite fillings usually need replacing within 5–7 years.
Strength – indirect restorations reinforce the tooth, whereas large fillings can weaken it.
Fit – laboratory design ensures an exact fit, with no shrinking or movement over time.
Conservation – less natural tooth needs to be removed compared with some large fillings.

If less than half the tooth is affected, a filling may be suitable. If more than 40–60% is damaged, an inlay, onlay, or overlay is often a stronger and safer choice.

Inlays and Onlays vs Crowns

Crowns cover the entire tooth and are recommended when damage is extensive. Inlays and onlays, by contrast, only replace the damaged area and conserve more natural tooth.

Inlays/onlays – ideal for moderate damage, conserving tooth tissue.
Crowns – necessary when the tooth is severely weakened or at risk of breaking.

Both treatments restore function, but inlays and onlays are more conservative and may last longer in some cases.

Types of Inlays and Onlays

At Thousand Smiles, we offer three main material options:

Gold

Extremely durable (can last over 30 years).
Highly resistant to wear.
Most noticeable in the mouth, making it best for back teeth.
Premium cost compared with other materials.

Porcelain

Natural-looking, blends with surrounding teeth.
Resistant to staining.
Strong but may chip if exposed to heavy biting forces.
A popular choice for visible teeth.

Composite Resin

Tooth-coloured for a seamless appearance.
Less expensive than porcelain or gold.
More prone to staining and wear over time.
Good for patients prioritising aesthetics and affordability.

Your dentist will explain the pros and cons of each option to help you decide.

Recovery and Aftercare

After wisdom tooth removal, it is common to experience mild swelling, bleeding, or discomfort. Your dentist will provide aftercare guidance to support smooth healing, which may include:

Using prescribed or over-the-counter pain relief.
Applying ice packs to reduce swelling.
Eating soft foods such as yoghurt, pasta, or smoothies for the first few days.
Avoiding smoking, alcohol, and strenuous activity until recovery is complete.
Keeping the extraction site clean as instructed.

Serious complications such as dry socket or infection are rare but should be reported to your dentist if they occur.

The Procedure

Treatment usually takes two visits:

First appointment

Local anaesthetic is given for comfort.
Decay or old filling material is removed, and the tooth is shaped.
A digital scan or mould is taken and sent to the dental laboratory.
A temporary filling is placed to protect the tooth.

Second appointment

The temporary filling is removed.
The custom inlay, onlay, or overlay is checked for fit and colour match.
The restoration is bonded securely to the tooth.
Final polishing ensures a smooth finish.

After treatment, the tooth may feel slightly sensitive or unusual for a few days, but this quickly settles.

Aftercare and Longevity

With proper care, inlays and onlays can last 20–30 years. To maximise their lifespan:

Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
Floss or use interdental brushes to clean between teeth.
Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleaning.
Avoid biting hard objects such as ice or pens.

If an inlay or onlay ever becomes loose, visit your dentist promptly for rebounding.

Cost of Inlays and Onlays in London

The cost varies depending on material choice, tooth position, and the complexity of the restoration. On average, inlays and onlays in London range from £400 to £600 per tooth.

During your consultation, we will provide a clear, personalised treatment plan with full cost breakdown.

Advantages of Inlays and Onlays

Long-lasting and durable.
Conservative, preserving natural tooth.
Stronger and more supportive than large fillings.
Aesthetic options available to match natural teeth.
Reduced risk of shrinkage and tooth sensitivity compared to standard fillings.

Possible Disadvantages

Higher cost than regular fillings.
Requires at least two visits.
More preparation time than a simple filling.

However, the long-term durability and protection often make them a worthwhile investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I need an inlay or an onlay?

Your dentist will recommend the most appropriate restoration after examining the extent of tooth damage.
Are inlays and onlays painful?

The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic, so you should not feel pain. Mild soreness afterwards is normal and temporary.
Can an inlay or onlay fall out?

It is very rare, but if bonding fails the restoration can loosen. In most cases, it can be reattached easily.
Do inlays and onlays prevent future decay?

They do not prevent decay entirely, but they seal the tooth securely, making it more resistant. Good oral hygiene remains essential.
What is a pinlay?

A pinlay refers to an inlay or onlay secured with small pins for additional support in cases of severe damage.

Book Your Appointment

If you have a damaged tooth and want a solution that is stronger than a filling but less invasive than a crown, inlays and onlays may be the right choice.