Inlays

Sealing badly-eroded teeth and preventing bacterial infection

When tooth erosion has occurred and a filling is not enough to fill the space, an inlay is used to seal the tooth cavity and prevent bacteria and infection from entering the dental chamber.

Unlike fillings, inlays are pre-prepared to ensure a perfect fit with the remaining portion of the tooth. The inlay restoration is made of tooth-coloured porcelain or ceramic, so it will blend in perfectly with the colour of natural teeth. The tailored fit will restore the strength of your tooth, so it’s likely to perform well for 10 years or more if you’re careful with your oral hygiene.

How dental inlays are fitted

Your dentist will begin by taking a dental impression. This is then used to create a bespoke inlay which will be carefully manufactured and tested to ensure a perfect fit. Finally, the inlay is fixed in place using a strong bonding agent. It will be polished and smoothed to ensure it looks exactly like your other teeth.

If more than half of your tooth has suffered decay, it may be better to fit a dental crown rather than an inlay. Your dentist will always discuss your options with you before work begins.