Dental inlays and onlays North London

A smart middle ground between fillings and crowns

Not every damaged tooth needs a full crown. When decay or cracking is too extensive for a standard filling, but the tooth is still largely intact, inlays and onlays provide the perfect middle ground. They help preserve the natural tooth while offering strength, durability, and a seamless appearance.

What’s the difference between an inlay and an onlay?

Both treatments are designed to repair damaged or decayed areas of a tooth, but they cover different portions.

Inlays fit within the grooves of the tooth, similar to a filling, but are custom-made for a better fit and longer lifespan.

Onlays are a bit larger and cover one or more of the tooth’s cusps (the raised points on a molar).

Why choose inlays or onlays over traditional fillings?

Inlays and onlays offer several advantages:

• More durable than standard fillings and less likely to crack or wear down over time
• Tooth-coloured materials like porcelain or resin blend naturally with your smile
• Stronger support for the existing tooth structure
• Better long-term investment, often lasting longer than traditional metal fillings

What’s the treatment process like?

The procedure usually takes two visits:

Visit One
We’ll begin by numbing the area and removing any decay or damaged portions of the tooth. Once cleaned, we take a digital or physical impression to create your custom inlay or onlay. You’ll be fitted with a temporary restoration to protect your tooth in the meantime.

Visit Two
Once your inlay or onlay is ready, we remove the temporary and carefully bond your final restoration in place. The result is a tooth that looks and functions like new, with a smooth, natural feel.

Repair your teeth with strength and style

If you’re unsure whether you need a filling, crown, or something in between, our experienced team can help you choose the right option.