Dental Inlays: The Solution To Damaged & Decayed Teeth
Transform your smile with dental inlays - contact us today to discuss options, costs and pay monthly finance.
Do you have teeth that are too damaged or decayed for a simple filling? Dental inlays are a great solution. Also known as ‘indirect fillings,’ an inlay repairs the inside the tooth, while preserving as much of its structure as possible.
What are dental inlays used for?
This type of dental restoration is most commonly used to fix teeth at the back of the mouth. Your dentist may suggest using an inlay if the damage is too severe for a filling, but not severe enough for a dental crown. Let’s compare inlays to other treatments and how they address common dental problems.
Dental issue | Do I need a dental inlay or another treatment? |
|---|---|
Mild cavity | Filling |
Severe cavity | Inlay |
Chipped tooth | Inlay or Nanofill Composite Bonding® |
Cracked tooth | Dental crown or Nanofill Composite Bonding® |
Exposed nerves | Root canal, dental crown or Nanofill Composite Bonding® |
Teeth grinding (Bruxism) | Inlay, dental crown or Nanofill Composite Bonding® |
Dental trauma | Depends on the type and extent of injury – see the link for more detail |
What are dental inlays made from?
Like fillings, dental inlays are typically made from composite resin or porcelain, thanks to their durability and ultra-aesthetic appearance. Another material sometimes used for an inlay is gold. Here at Yorkshire Dental Suite, we have developed our very own material, Nanofill™, to repair your tooth. Nanofill™ is our exclusive composite resin that offers a natural look and feel. It has been meticulously crafted to provide unparalleled longevity and chip resistance, making it the perfect choice for dentists.
Dental inlay procedure
The whole treatment is completed in three appointments. The first is a consultation, which will check you are eligible for a dental inlay and do not have any pre-existing dental issues that may hinder the procedure, for example, gum disease. The second appointment is when the main surgery is carried out.
- Firstly, you are sedated. This makes the procedure pain free.
- The damaged or decayed portion of the tooth is removed.
- An impression of your tooth is taken. It is then sent to the laboratory, where your permanent inlay is crafted.
- A temporary inlay is placed onto the tooth.
Once your permanent inlay is ready, it’s time for your final appointment.
- The temporary inlay is removed.
- The tooth is cleaned out.
- The permanent inlay is placed onto the tooth.
- Once your dentist is happy with the fit and your bite, the inlay is bonded to the tooth and polished.
How much does a dental inlay cost in the UK?
The answer to this depends on where you go for your treatment. Dental inlays are available on the NHS and fall under the Band 3 category, meaning you would pay £326.70 for the procedure. If you choose to go to the NHS for your inlay, you will most likely face limited appointment availability and a long waiting list. The cost of dental inlays at private clinics can vary anywhere between £300 and £900 in the UK. As the complexity of the case changes the price of the inlay, Yorkshire Dental Suite cannot give you a direct answer as to what your amount would be; however, as a rough guide, you may be looking at around £895. Want to spread the cost of your treatment? Enquire about our range of finance options.
How long do dental inlays last?
The lifespan of an inlay varies greatly, ranging from five years to thirty. There are some things you can do to get the most wear out of your treatment. Allow us to go into more detail.
- Oral hygiene is key: Brush twice a day with a fluoride-infused toothpaste and a high-quality toothbrush. We also recommend flossing daily. This will help to prevent further decay.
- Do not avoid the dentist: Attend two routine check-ups annually to make sure your inlay is in good condition. Visit your dental hygienist twice a year too for a deep clean.
- Consider your diet: This restorative procedure is not indestructible, much like your natural teeth, and sticky, crunchy and hard foods may damage the inlay. If possible, try to limit your intake.
The pros and cons of dental inlays
In honour of full transparency, we have listed both the advantages and disadvantages of dental inlays to help you make an informed decision about how you would like to go ahead with the treatment.
P
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Very durable | More expensive than a filling |
Custom-made for a perfect fit | Requires three appointments |
Aesthetically pleasing | Harder application technique |
Cheaper than a dental crown | Risk of chipping and cracking |
Preserves the tooth structure as much as possible | Cannot fix extreme dental problems, for example, some types of tooth injury |
Minimises risks of future damage, decay and tooth loss. | May cause temporary sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures |
Dental inlays vs. dental onlays vs. dental overlays
These terms are often confused. While they are all types of dental restorations, there is a key difference between the three – where they are placed on the tooth.
- Inlay: Fitted inside the tooth.
- Onlay: Covers the cusp (the top surface) of the tooth.
- Overlay: Covers the cusps and lateral surfaces of the tooth.
Conclusion: Patients in need of a dental inlay can visit their local Yorkshire Dental Suite clinic to repair their tooth and stop day-to-day pain. Book your consultation today to kickstart your journey to a healthier smile.