Fillings, inlays and onlays are all used to restore or replace parts of teeth that have been damaged by tooth decay. They are used for different parts of teeth and can be made of a variety of materials. 

What is the difference between a filling, inlay and only?

Most people are familiar with the term ‘filling’ as a way to restore teeth that have been damaged by tooth decay. As dentists, we use a combination of fillings, inlays and onlays to help prevent further decay depending on what is right for you.

• Fillings – used to fill in smaller areas on any part of a tooth affected by decay.

• Inlay – a moulded filling that fits inside the tooth to replace small amounts of structural decay in the grooves of your tooth.

• Onlay – fits inside the tooth and extends onto the chewing surface to replace one or more of the outer cusps of your tooth.

Generally, inlays are used for larger areas that have been damaged by tooth decay where using a large filling would weaken the structure of the tooth. Onlays are used or when you have a decayed, broken or fractured tooth that has affected the cusp.

Your dentist will talk to you about the different options and advise on the best type of restoration for you depending on the location and size of the area to be repaired.

Should I replace my old silver fillings?  

Traditional silver (amalgam) fillings are made from a mixture of metals. Amalgam fillings have been used safely and reliably for decades and many people still have them. Composite (‘white’) fillings are a mixture of resin and glass that is used to create a tooth-coloured filling for a more natural look.

Many people do not like the look of their old silver fillings when they talk, smile and laugh. If you have concerns, you should speak to your dentist about replacing some or all of your old silver fillings with a new composite filling, inlay or onlay. Your dentist is the best person to advise if this is a good option for you.

Same day composite fillings, inlays and onlays

We can create natural-looking and long-lasting inlays and onlays usually in a single visit using the latest CEREC digital technology available right here in our practice.

CEREC stands for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics. We use it to take impressions and make precise moulds quickly using computer aided design and computer aided manufacturing using.

Our CEREC machine can be used for all types of ceramic restorations – veneers, crowns, onlays and inlays.

Read more about our same day crowns here. [LINK TO PAGE]