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Inlays & Onlays

The Conservative Alternative to Crowns: Ceramic Inlays & Onlays

When a tooth is too damaged for a standard filling but not damaged enough to require a full crown, a ceramic inlay or onlay is the ideal solution. These custom-made restorations are designed to fit precisely into or onto the damaged area of the tooth, restoring its strength, function, and appearance while preserving as much of your natural tooth structure as possible. At West Harbour Dental, we offer high-quality ceramic inlays and onlays that are both durable and incredibly natural-looking.

For patients in West Harbour, Massey, and Hobsonville seeking a conservative yet long-lasting solution for damaged teeth, inlays and onlays are an excellent choice. Let us help you restore your smile with precision and care.

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The Problem: Damage Too Extensive for a Filling, But Not Severe Enough for a Crown

You might have a tooth with a large cavity or a fractured cusp (the pointed part of the chewing surface). A standard composite filling might not be strong enough to withstand the chewing forces in this area, and it could fail over time. On the other hand, a full crown would require significant removal of healthy tooth structure, which is not ideal if the tooth is otherwise strong.

You’re looking for a solution that strikes the perfect balance—one that is strong, durable, and aesthetic, but also conservative, preserving as much of your natural tooth as possible. You want a restoration that will last for many years and blend seamlessly with your smile.

The Solution: Precision-Crafted Ceramic Inlays & Onlays

At West Harbour Dental, we create custom ceramic inlays and onlays that are tailored to fit your tooth with exceptional precision. These restorations are fabricated in a dental laboratory from high-quality ceramic material, which is strong, durable, and can be matched perfectly to the colour of your natural teeth.

What's the Difference?

Inlay

An inlay fits within the cusps (the raised points) of the tooth, similar to a filling, but it is made from a solid piece of ceramic rather than being built up in layers. It is ideal for restoring the chewing surface between the cusps.

Onlay

An onlay is larger and covers one or more of the cusps of the tooth. It provides more extensive coverage and protection, making it ideal for teeth with more significant damage or large fillings that need to be replaced.

The Inlay/Onlay Process

  • 1. Tooth Preparation

    Your dentist will remove the damaged or decayed portion of the tooth and shape it to receive the inlay or onlay. This preparation is much more conservative than what is required for a crown.

  • 2. Digital Impressions

    We take highly accurate digital impressions of the prepared tooth using our comfortable Intraoral Scanner.

  • 3. Custom Fabrication

    Your inlay or onlay is custom-made in a dental laboratory from high-quality ceramic, precisely matched to the shade of your natural teeth.

  • 4. Bonding

    Once your restoration is ready, we will check the fit and colour before permanently bonding it to your tooth. The result is a strong, seamless, and beautiful restoration.

The Benefits of Inlays & Onlays

Conservative

Preserves more of your natural tooth structure compared to a crown.

Durable

Ceramic is incredibly strong and can withstand heavy chewing forces.

Aesthetic

Perfectly matched to your natural tooth colour for an invisible repair.

Long-Lasting

With proper care, inlays and onlays can last for many years.

Your Local Experts in Precision Restorative Dentistry

Creating a perfect inlay or onlay requires a high level of skill and attention to detail. The dental team at West Harbour Dental has extensive experience in providing these conservative restorations. Our patients from Massey, Hobsonville, and across West Auckland trust us for our meticulous approach and our commitment to preserving natural tooth structure while delivering beautiful, long-lasting results.

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Ready to Restore Your Tooth Conservatively?

If you have a damaged tooth that needs more than a filling but less than a crown, a ceramic inlay or onlay could be the perfect solution. Let our expert team at West Harbour Dental provide you with a durable, aesthetic, and conservative restoration.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation. Call our friendly team on 09 416 9619 or fill out our online enquiry form.
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