Call me back
Porcelain Inlays and Onlays: Durable, Natural-Looking Dental Restorations
Restore your smile with porcelain inlays and onlays, a long-lasting and tooth-coloured solution for damaged teeth. These custom-crafted restorations are ideal for strengthening and repairing the chewing surfaces of back teeth, offering both functionality and aesthetics.
What Are Porcelain Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are advanced dental restorations designed to repair specific parts of a tooth:
- Inlays: Perfect for filling cavities confined within the grooves of a tooth.
- Onlays: Cover the entire chewing surface and provide additional support for severely damaged teeth.
Crafted from high-quality porcelain, these restorations blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, ensuring a discreet and durable finish.
Benefits of Porcelain Inlays and Onlays
Why choose porcelain inlays and onlays for your dental restoration?
- Aesthetic Appeal: Tooth-coloured material matches your natural teeth for a flawless look.
- Long-Lasting Durability: Porcelain is resistant to wear and designed to handle chewing forces.
- Minimally Invasive: More conservative than traditional crowns, preserving natural tooth structure.
- Custom Fit: Each inlay or onlay is tailored for precise placement and comfort.
- Improved Strength: Reinforces the tooth, reducing the risk of further damage.

The Treatment Process: What to Expect
Restoring your tooth with an inlay or onlay is a simple two-step procedure:
1. First Appointment: Tooth Preparation and Impression
- Removal of decay or old fillings.
- Shaping of the tooth cavity to prepare for the restoration.
- Taking a detailed impression to fabricate a custom-fit inlay or onlay.
- Placement of a temporary restoration to protect your tooth until the next visit.
2. Second Appointment: Placement and Bonding
- Your custom inlay or onlay is checked for a perfect fit and shade match.
- The restoration is securely bonded to the tooth with a strong adhesive.
- Final adjustments are made, and the surface is polished for a natural finish.
Who Can Benefit from Inlays and Onlays?
Porcelain inlays and onlays are ideal for patients with:
- Moderate tooth decay or damage.
- Worn-down fillings that need replacement.
- Back teeth that require reinforcement without a full crown.
Our dental team will evaluate your oral health during your consultation to recommend the best treatment for your needs.
Caring for Your Inlays and Onlays
Maintain your porcelain inlays and onlays with these simple tips:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily to keep the surrounding teeth and gums healthy.
- Avoid biting hard objects like ice or pen caps.
- Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings.

What is the difference between an inlay and an onlay?
An inlay fits within the grooves of the tooth, while an onlay covers one or more cusps, offering greater coverage and support.
How long do porcelain inlays and onlays last?
With proper care, these restorations can last 10–15 years or longer.
Are inlays and onlays better than fillings?
Inlays and onlays are stronger and more durable than traditional fillings, making them ideal for repairing larger areas of decay.
Is the procedure painful?
The procedure is minimally invasive and performed under local anaesthesia, ensuring your comfort throughout.
Why Choose Us for Your Dental Restoration?
At Whiteley Dental Practice, we combine expert care with advanced techniques to provide top-quality dental solutions. From consultation to placement, we ensure a seamless and comfortable experience tailored to your needs.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Ready to restore your smile with porcelain inlays and onlays? Contact us today to book your consultation. Our team is here to help you achieve a strong, healthy smile that looks as good as it feels.