To play the video again, click the "refresh" button on your
browser.
An inlay (sometimes also called an "onlay" depending on the
design) is a more durable alternative to a filling. Inlays also have better aesthetics.
Why would I need an inlay?
For the same reasons that you may need a filling: because a
tooth has been damaged by decay or trauma.
What types of inlay are there?
There are three different types of inlay: gold, porcelain and
composite. Your dentist will advise which will give the best results in
your case.
How long does an inlay last?
An inlay should last for many years. We are so confident of the quality of
our inlays that we guarantee them for 2 years.
How much does an inlay cost?
Inlays cost from £410.00.
The exact price depends on the type of material used.
How does a dentist prepare a tooth for an inlay?
Your dentist will shape the tooth, removing any decayed or
damaged material. Next, they will
take an "impression" (ie make a mould of) your teeth and take a measurement of
how you bite together. The dentist will record the shade of the
tooth (nb: not for a metal inlay) so that the new inlay is an exact match.
Your dentist will place a temporary filling while the permanent inlay is being
made so that you don’t have a large hole in the meantime.
Will the dentist use anaesthetic?
In most cases your dentist will need to anaesthetise the tooth before
working on it.
What happens next?
The impression, bite measurements and shade information are
passed to a specialist dental laboratory. The laboratory makes the inlay
to fit in perfectly with your tooth. About a week or two after your first
appointment your dentist will see you for a second time to check that your new
inlay is a good fit and that the shade is a good match.
The inlay is then fixed in place using special dental cement.
Are there any alternatives to inlays?
If your dentist has suggested an inlay this is probably because
the damage is too extensive to be repaired with a composite filling but not extensive enough to warrant placing a
crown.
Interest free credit
If you spend over £500, you can spread the cost of your treatment over up to 6 months, interest free.
Spend £1,500 or more and you can have up to 12 months to pay at no extra cost.
What is an inlay?