Dental Inlays & Onlays in Cairns

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What Are Dental Inlays & Onlays?

Porcelain inlays and onlays enable patients to resolve moderate to large amounts of decay. Often used as an alternative to traditional amalgam fillings, porcelain inlays and onlays look and feel like your natural teeth. This involves the treatment of a tooth that has lost a big chunk owing to natural decay or several repeated dental treatments. 


Inlays are planted in a tooth’s cusps with the help of dental cement that permanently binds it to the tooth enamel. Onlays are much bigger and offer restoration to large parts of a tooth’s surface but are smaller than crowns that replace the entire chewing surface. They help restore strength and rigidity to the tooth, which a large filling could not do. It also preserves more tooth structure than a crown, as crowns are designed to cover the whole tooth. 


To learn more about dental inlays and onlays, get in touch with The Dentist Cairns Dental Group today.

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Minimally Invasive Treatment Option

Onlays/Inlays are conservative dental treatments and are minimally invasive, meaning only the decayed area of the tooth is removed. 


Porcelain inlays and onlays are beneficial to patients as they fit perfectly within the affected area of the tooth. This means the decay is less likely to reoccur once treatment is completed. Customised to be a perfect fit, porcelain inlays/onlays are aesthetically the best options as they often go unnoticed, thanks to their enamel-like colour. They also keep the strength of your back teeth intact by bonding with the enamel.


Dental inlays and onlays are an ideal option for patients who:


  • Have large cavities 
  • Are seeking a conservative treatment option 
  • Want to avoid getting a crown 
  • Value aesthetics & want their smile to look natural


Schedule an appointment with us to see if dental inlays or onlays are the best treatment option for you.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • How is the procedure performed?

    The procedure is performed by first numbing the tooth and surrounding area with a local anaesthetic. Once the area is numb, your dentist will make an opening in the tooth to remove any decay or damaged tooth structure. Next, an impression of the prepared tooth will be made to create a custom inlay or onlay. Once the inlay or onlay is ready, your dentist will cement it into place.

  • How much pain can I expect?

    You should not experience pain during the procedure as you will be numbed with a local anaesthetic. However, you may experience discomfort or tenderness afterwards as your mouth adjusts to the new dental work. This is usually temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication if necessary.

  • How long will it take for the inlay or onlay to be made?

    Inlays and onlays are custom-made in a dental laboratory, so it may take a few days or up to two weeks for them to be ready. During this time, your dentist may place a temporary filling in the prepared tooth to protect it until the permanent inlay or onlay is ready.

  • Why is porcelain used for inlays and onlays?

    Porcelain is often used because it closely resembles the natural colour of teeth. It is also a strong and durable material that can withstand the forces of chewing.

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Caring for Your Inlays/Onlays

Porcelain inlays and onlays are strong and durable; however, they still require the same level of at-home care and professional dental cleanings as your natural teeth. Be sure to brush and floss regularly, eat a balanced diet and visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.


A structured dental care routine will help ensure your inlays and onlays last for many years. Contact us today if you have any questions about caring for your inlays or onlays. 

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