Dental inlays and onlays in
Thornton Heath
Custom restorations that rebuild damaged teeth and keep your smile looking natural.
This paragraph gives us additional space to discuss the treatment if we require it. It's a pretty concise space to get a direct message across.
A conservative approach that keeps as much natural tooth as possible
Strong, natural-looking materials chosen to suit your tooth and bite
Made to measure for a snug fit and a comfortable feel
Clear explanations and transparent pricing before treatment starts
A tooth-saving way to rebuild and protect
If a tooth has a large cavity, a crack, or a worn-down old filling, a standard filling may not give enough support - but a full crown might be more coverage than you need. Inlays and onlays sit between the two. They reinforce the tooth, restore the biting surface, and help you keep more of your healthy tooth structure.
At Thornton Dental & Implant Centre, we plan these restorations with precision and fit, so patients across Thornton Heath, Brigstock Road, Bensham Manor, Selhurst, Norbury and Croydon can chew comfortably and protect the tooth for the long term.
A precise way to repair back teeth without full coverage
Inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations used to repair teeth affected by decay, fractures, or large failing fillings. They are crafted outside the mouth and then bonded to the tooth, creating a close fit that restores strength and function.
- An inlay sits within the grooves on the biting surface, filling the damaged area neatly
- An onlay covers a wider section and can wrap over one or more cusps to add extra support
Both options are designed to reinforce the tooth while keeping the natural shape and bite. They are often chosen when a tooth needs more support than a filling, but does not need a full crown.
A sensible option for moderate damage
Your dentist may suggest an inlay or onlay if you have:
Because molars and premolars take the most chewing force, inlays and onlays are often recommended for these teeth.
You can also explore related options such as white fillings and dental crowns.
Step-by-step care focused on comfort and accuracy
Treatment is usually completed over two visits:
Prepare the tooth
We remove any decay or failing material and shape the tooth carefully
Scan or impression
We take a detailed digital scan or mould so your restoration fits precisely
Create your restoration
The inlay/onlay is made to match your bite and shade
Fit and bond
We secure the restoration, check your bite, and polish for a smooth finish
Prepare the tooth
We remove any decay or failing material and shape the tooth carefully
Scan or impression
We take a detailed digital scan or mould so your restoration fits precisely
Create your restoration
The inlay/onlay is made to match your bite and shade
Fit and bond
We secure the restoration, check your bite, and polish for a smooth finish
Where suitable, modern digital workflows can reduce turnaround time. Your dentist will explain what is appropriate for your tooth.
Added strength compared with large fillings, helping the tooth cope with chewing forces
More tooth preserved than with a crown, which can help maintain long-term stability
A close seal that helps protect the tooth and reduces the chance of future decay
Shade-matched materials for a natural finish that blends with your smile
A comfortable bite once fitted and adjusted properly
Strong, discreet restorations that support everyday function
With good home care and regular dental check-ups, inlays and onlays can serve you well for many years.
Straightforward pricing and clear options
Fees can vary depending on the material used and how much of the tooth needs rebuilding. We will talk you through the best option for your tooth and confirm the full cost before treatment begins.
Common patient questions, answered
Are inlays and onlays stronger than fillings?
They can be a stronger choice than a large filling because they are made to measure and bonded in place to reinforce the tooth.
Will an inlay or onlay look natural?
Yes. We match the shade to your surrounding teeth, so the restoration blends in and looks discreet.
Is the appointment uncomfortable?
We use local anaesthetic to keep you comfortable. Afterwards, you may feel mild tenderness, but this usually settles quickly.
How long do inlays and onlays last?
With good brushing, flossing and routine check-ups, they can last for many years. Your dentist can advise what to expect for your bite.
Can an inlay or onlay help me avoid a crown?
Often, yes. If the tooth needs more support than a filling but still has enough healthy structure, an inlay or onlay can be a great middle option.
What materials can be used?
Common options include tooth-coloured porcelain or composite. We will recommend a material based on durability, appearance and where the tooth sits in your mouth.
What are inlays and onlays and when are they recommended?
Decayed or chipped teeth can often be repaired with white composite fillings that look natural, however if the damage is too substantial, particularly on the back teeth, then an inlay or onlay would be recommended. Inlays or onlays can be made from a number of strong materials such as metals or ceramics.
An inlay is a small filling that fits into the biting surface of a tooth. An onlay covers a larger area of the tooth and is better suited to bigger cavities. Gold was traditionally used for these types of restorations. However, in recent times hard-wearing tooth-coloured porcelain has become a more popular choice of material. This is a more aesthetic way to restore the teeth and creates a more natural-looking smile.
After an impression is made of your tooth, the inlay or onlay will be made in a dental laboratory by a technician. While these are being made, you will wear a temporary filling. When your inlay or onlay is ready we will bond it into place using a special adhesive, after removing the temporary filling. Your restored tooth will not only look like a real tooth but also function like one, allowing you to bite, chew and eat without any discomfort.
Thanks to advances in digital technology (called CAD/CAM) porcelain inlays can be made at some dental practices using a special milling machine known as CEREC. This means you will need fewer visits to the dentist to have your tooth restored.
- Preserves remaining tooth structure.
- Long-term aesthetic and functional solution.
- Natural-looking restoration.
How are inlays and onlays made?
Once we have prepared the tooth, we take a scan or impression so a technician can fabricate your restoration. A temporary filling may be used while it is being made. At your fitting visit, we bond the inlay/onlay in place and fine-tune the bite.
Book your inlays and onlays appointment in Thornton Heath
If you have a damaged tooth and want a durable solution that keeps your tooth as intact as possible, inlays and onlays may be a great fit. We’ll explain your options clearly and help you choose what suits your smile.
I have been a patient at Thornton Heath Dental Surgery for over 10 years, and I can truly say this is the best dental clinic I have ever been to.
I honestly had such a great experience here! Dr. Alia Johab is amazing – she made me feel so comfortable and always takes the time to answer any worries I have.
I was treated for a cavity and the experience was excellent! The professional was very attentive, careful and made me feel very comfortable during the procedure.
I have been to different dentists in the past but my visit to Dr Alia has been life changing.
How to find us in Thornton Heath
Thornton Heath,
CR7 7JD
Friday: 9:00am – 4:00pm
Saturday: 9:00am – 1:30pm
Sunday: Closed
250 & 198
Parking available
Thornton Heath train station – 10 mins walk
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Our other practices
Thornton Dental & Implant Centre is part of a small group of independently run dental practices, each offering high-quality care with a patient-first approach across London and Surrey.
Apex Dental & Implant Centre
200 Hampton Road
West Feltham TW13 6BG
Waterfall Dental & Implant Centre
223 Tooting High Street
London SW17 0TD
Putney Dental & Implant Centre
353 Upper Richmond Road,
Putney, London, SW15 5QJ
