When you need a filling, there are usually plenty of options open to you. However, if you want a natural-looking, strong option that can also be used to improve the appearance of your smile, you should ask your dentist about inlays and onlays.
What are inlays and onlays?
Sometimes known as “indirect fillings” both inlays and onlays can be used to treat decayed or badly damaged teeth where traditional filling materials may not be a viable choice. Unlike composite or amalgam, inlays and onlays are solid pieces of material that are attached to your tooth. You can choose to follow a natural-looking approach and opt for porcelain or ceramic inlays and onlays. Or, you can have them in precious metals such as gold – it all depends what you want your smile to look like, but your dentist will also advise which materials might be best for your situation! In some cases, an inlay/onlay may be made out of composite – the same tooth-coloured material that you would have for a standard filling.
The difference between inlays and onlays is the amount of the tooth they cover. Inlays are placed within the cavity on the tooth, while an onlay will replace the cusps (tips) of your tooth.
What are the advantages?
Inlays and onlays are a versatile option that come with many benefits. They both provide additional strength compared to very large fillings for the affected tooth following treatment, meaning that they will likely be able to restore biting and chewing forces once again.
They’re also usually a longer-lasting option than traditional fillings, especially when properly maintained. Another great benefit is that inlays and onlays can help to boost your smile aesthetics. If you opt for a porcelain or ceramic material, this will be specifically created to blend in with your natural tooth colour.
Plus, compared to crowns, placement of inlays and onlays require less of your natural tooth to be removed, making them a perfect choice for people keen to retain as much of their original tooth structure as possible.
How long do inlays and onlays take?
Dental inlays/onlays usually require two appointments to place. The first appointment will involve your dentist assessing your mouth and taking a dental impression. This impression will then be sent to a dental laboratory who will create your dental inlay/onlay to perfectly fit onto your tooth. This will then be placed in your second appointment, with the inlay/onlay secured into place using a dental resin or cement.
If you opt for a composite inlay/onlay, this can sometimes be created in your dental practice by your dentist and may only take a single appointment. However, it’s worth remembering that composite inlays/onlays won’t necessarily offer the same strength benefits as those made from porcelain and precious metals.
Ask your dentist to find out more!
Dental inlays/onlays are just one of the many restorative dental options you can choose to protect and improve your smile. Our dentists are members of the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (BACD) which means that they are fully trained to deliver only the highest standard of treatment. So, if you want to explore the options available to you, please contact our team today!
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🎥 What is a dental crown – and how does it work? 🦷
In this short video, our lovely dentist Yasmin explains everything you need to know about dental crowns – from when they’re needed to how they protect and restore your tooth.
Whether you’ve been told you might need a crown or you’re just curious, this is a great place to start!
👑 Watch now to learn how crowns can help keep your smile strong and healthy.
#EvolveDentistry #PortisheadDentist #DentalHealth #DentalCrowns #SmileWithConfidence #DentistExplains
🎥 Meet Chris!
Chris recently had bonding on his front teeth as the first step toward getting his new dentures here at Evolve Dentistry. He kindly shared his experience with us, and we’re so pleased to be part of his journey to a confident, comfortable smile. 😄🦷
Watch the video to hear more about how the treatment has helped—and what’s next!
#EvolveDentistry #PatientJourney #SmileTransformation #ToothBonding #Dentures
🏆 We’re Finalists – Times Three! 🎉
We’re absolutely thrilled to share that Evolve Dentistry has been shortlisted as a finalist in three categories at the Dentistry Awards 2025:
✨ Best Patient Care
✨ Team of the Year
✨ Practice of the Year
Being recognised for the care we provide and the incredible team behind it means the world to us. Thank you to our amazing patients and community for your continued support – we couldn’t do it without you!
The winners will be announced on June 6th, we`ve got everything crossed.
📣 It’s National Smile Month! 😁
At Evolve Dentistry in Portishead, we believe that a healthy smile is a confident smile – and there’s no better time to celebrate than during National Smile Month! 🦷💙
Whether it’s a regular healthy mouth review, teeth whitening, or straighter smiles – we’re here to help you smile with confidence every day.
🪥 This month is all about raising awareness of good oral health and the simple steps that can make a big difference:
✨ Brush twice a day for 2 minutes
✨ Clean between your teeth daily using floss or interdental brushes
✨ Visit your dentist regularly
✨ Cut down on how much and how often you have sugary foods and drinks
#NationalSmileMonth #HealthySmiles #EvolveDentistry #PortisheadDentist #SmileWithConfidence #TeamEvolve
👶✨ Exciting News! ✨👶
Our lovely dentist Yasmin will be heading off on maternity leave in July, as she prepares to welcome a new addition to her family – and we couldn’t be more thrilled for her! 💕🍼
While she takes this special time away, we want to reassure all of Yasmin’s patients that they’ll be in safe hands. During her leave, your dental care will be looked after by Richard, as well as the rest of our experienced and friendly team, ensuring a smooth and seamless transition.
We know how important continuity of care is, and we’re here to make sure you feel confident and supported at every appointment.
Join us in wishing Yasmin all the best on this exciting journey – we can’t wait to meet the newest member of the Evolve family! 💖
#EvolveDentistry #MaternityLeave #PortisheadDentist #TeamEvolve #DentalCare #YasminEvolve #PatientCare