What is a filling?

A filling is used to repair small to medium cavities.Your dentist removes the decay and fills the space with a material such as:

• composite (white filling)
• amalgam (silver filling)
• glass ionomer

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Fillings are shaped directly inside your mouth, making them quick and convenient.

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Best for:

• small cavities
• early decay
• minor chips
• quick repairs

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What is an inlay?

An inlay is a custom‑made restoration created in a dental lab.Instead of shaping the material inside your mouth, your dentist takes an impression and a lab designs a precise piece that fits your tooth perfectly.

Inlays are usually made from:

• ceramic
• porcelain
• composite
• gold (less common today)

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Best for:

• larger cavities
• deeper decay
• teeth that need extra strength
• long‑lasting repairs

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Inlay vs filling

Which option is better?

Choose a filling if:

• the cavity is small
• you want a quick repair
• the tooth structure is mostly intact

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Choose an inlay if:

• the cavity is large
• you want a stronger, longer‑lasting repair
• the tooth needs extra reinforcement
• you want a more precise, custom fit

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Inlays are often recommended when a filling would be too weak but a crown would be unnecessary.

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How long each treatment takes

Filling

• One appointment
• Usually 20–40 minutes

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Inlay

• Two appointments
• Preparation + impression
• Lab time (5–10 days)
• Final fitting

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Do inlays look more natural?

Yes - ceramic and porcelain inlays blend seamlessly with your tooth colour.They’re often more aesthetic than large fillings, especially on back teeth.

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How the Toothfairy Wand helps after treatment

The Toothfairy Wand supports long‑term tooth health by:

• cleaning around inlays and fillings with sonic precision
• reducing plaque buildup
• protecting the gumline
• improving brushing coverage with app guidance

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Better brushing = longer‑lasting restorations.

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When to contact a dentist

Your filling or inlay feels loose

It may need re‑cementing.

You feel sharp pain or sensitivity

Could indicate deeper decay or bite issues.

Food keeps getting stuck

The restoration may need adjustment.

You notice cracks or wear

Early repair prevents bigger problems.

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How Toothfairy supports you

Photo‑based assessments

Upload images to check for cracks, wear or gum inflammation.

Dentist‑led advice

Clear guidance on whether your restoration needs attention.

Smart brushing support

The Toothfairy Wand helps protect your dental work.

Clear next steps

Know whether you can manage the issue at home or need a clinic visit.

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