Inlays & Onlays in Seoul (Uijeongbu) – Seoul Lab Dental Clinicin Seoul, Korea
When a cavity or fracture is too large for a filling but doesn’t yet need a full crown, an inlay or onlay can be the ideal middle ground. At Seoul Lab Dental Clinic, we use high-strength ceramics and conservative techniques to rebuild your tooth’s shape, function, and natural look—clearly explained by our English-friendly team.
What Are Inlays & Onlays?
- Inlay: Replaces the inner chewing surface within the tooth’s cusps.
- Onlay: Covers one or more cusps to repair larger defects or cracks.
Both are custom-made restorations (often ceramic) that are bonded to your tooth for strength, longevity, and precise fit.
Who’s a Good Candidate?
- Large or recurrent cavities where a regular filling won’t last
- Cracked or weakened cusps from wear or large old fillings
- Desire for a conservative option instead of a full crown
- Back teeth needing durability with a natural appearance
If decay is extremely extensive or the tooth is heavily cracked, a full crown may be safer. If decay involves the nerve, root canal therapy may be required first.
Benefits at a Glance
- Conservative: preserves more healthy tooth than a crown
- Strong & durable: ideal for chewing forces in molars/premolars
- Natural aesthetics: ceramic matches your tooth color and translucency
- Precision fit: lab- or chairside-crafted for accurate contacts and bite
Materials We Use
- High-strength ceramics (e.g., porcelain/lithium disilicate) for beauty and durability
- Adhesive bonding to seal and reinforce the remaining tooth structure
Our Treatment Process
- Diagnosis & Planning
Exam, photos, and any needed X-rays; we show you what we see and discuss options. - Conservative Preparation
Remove decay/old filling and shape the cavity to receive the inlay/onlay. - Digital Scan or Impression
We capture an accurate model—no messy trays—with shade selection for a seamless match. - Fabrication
Custom inlay/onlay is created (chairside or at partner lab, depending on your case). - Try-In & Bonding
Fit check, contact adjustment, then bonding for strength; final polish and bite check.
Timeline
- Single-visit (chairside CAD/CAM) cases: ~1.5–2.5 hours total
- Lab cases: Prep visit + temporary → final bonding in ~1–2 weeks
We can compress schedules for travelers where clinically appropriate.
Aftercare & Longevity
- Avoid chewing until numbness wears off
- Mild cold sensitivity for a few days is common and usually settles
- Brush/floss daily; clean around margins carefully
- Consider a nightguard if you clench or grind
- Routine check-ups protect your restoration and bite
FAQs
Inlay/onlay vs. crown—how do I choose?
If the tooth still has enough healthy structure, inlay/onlay preserves more enamel. If it’s severely weakened, a crown offers better protection. We’ll show you images and explain.
Composite filling or ceramic onlay?
For larger defects, ceramic holds shape and shine better long term and resists wear; composites are great for smaller areas.
Will it look natural?
Yes—ceramic is shade-matched and polished to blend with surrounding enamel.
How long do they last?
With good hygiene and bite protection, many years. Bruxism control (nightguard) significantly extends longevity.
Pricing & Appointments
You’ll receive transparent pricing and material options before treatment. Our English-friendly coordinators can combine visits for busy schedules and help with documentation for private insurance reimbursement.
Call to Action
Need a solution stronger than a filling but more conservative than a crown?
Book an Inlays & Onlays appointment at Seoul Lab Dental Clinic (Uijeongbu) for durable, natural-looking restorations and a clear plan tailored to your tooth.