Inlays and Onlays in Rouse Hill

Inlays and onlays are restorative treatments that rebuild a tooth damaged by cavities or injury. An inlay is a pre-made filling that fits into the grooves of the tooth and is mainly used to restore cavities. An onlay covers a larger surface of the tooth, including the cusps. The process is similar to a filling, but inlays and onlays are a good alternative to crowns because they are minimally invasive and help strengthen the tooth being restored.

Inlays cover a small part of the tooth, between the cusps. Onlays are used when decay or damage affects the cusps, so they extend over them. Because onlays treat larger damage, they are slightly more extensive than inlays.

They are used to repair damaged back teeth, especially teeth that are cracked, fractured or decayed. They work best when the damage is mild to moderate: too large for a filling but not bad enough to need a crown. Inlays and onlays strengthen your tooth by repairing its chewing surface.

You will usually need two visits. At the first, your dentist numbs the area with local anaesthetic, removes the decay and prepares the tooth. An impression or scan is taken and a temporary restoration is fitted while your inlay or onlay is made. At the second visit, the temporary is removed, the tooth is cleaned and your final restoration is bonded in place with special dental cement. It is then polished for a smooth finish.

You can care for inlays and onlays just like the rest of your teeth. Brush twice a day, floss regularly and avoid chewing very hard things, such as ice or hard lollies, which could damage the restoration.

As a guide, porcelain inlays typically cost $1,000 – $1,800 and onlays $1,200 – $2,200 per tooth in Australia. The final cost of inlays and onlays in Rouse Hill depends on the size of the restoration and the tooth. You’ll receive a written quote, and payment plans are available.

With good oral hygiene and regular check-ups, porcelain inlays and onlays can last many years. Grinding your teeth, chewing hard objects and new decay around the edges can shorten their life, so we’ll check them at your routine visits.

For small cavities, a filling is usually the simplest choice. For larger damage, an inlay or onlay is made outside the mouth for a precise fit, which can make the tooth stronger and more durable than a large filling. Your dentist will advise which suits your tooth.

An onlay keeps more of your natural tooth because only the damaged area is covered. A crown covers the whole tooth and may be needed if the tooth is badly broken or has had root canal treatment. Dr Teena will explain the options after examining your tooth.

Many health funds with major dental cover pay a rebate towards inlays and onlays. Your rebate depends on your fund and level of cover. We accept all major health funds and process claims on the spot with HICAPS. For general dental information, visit the Australian Dental Association.