An onlay restoration is a dental treatment used to repair a tooth with a large cavity or damage. It is larger than a regular filling but does not require a full crown. Onlays are custom-made and are designed to restore both the function and appearance of a damaged tooth.
What Is an Onlay Restoration?
An onlay is a dental restoration designed to repair a tooth that has suffered significant damage or decay but does not require a full crown. It fits over the tooth, covering one or more of its cusps, which are the pointed parts of the tooth used for chewing.
Onlays are commonly made from materials such as porcelain, composite resin, or gold, offering strength and durability. Compared to crowns, onlays preserve more of the original tooth structure, making them a more conservative and minimally invasive option for tooth restoration.
When Do You Need an Onlay?
An onlay may be the best option if:
- Large Cavities or Tooth Damage: If a tooth has significant decay or damage, but there is still enough healthy tooth structure, an onlay can offer a strong and durable restoration.
- Aesthetics Matter: For visible teeth, porcelain onlays offer a natural look that blends well with your existing teeth. They are perfect for restoring teeth in the front of your mouth.
- Preserving Tooth Structure: Onlays are ideal if you want to keep as much of your original tooth as possible while still restoring its strength and function. Unlike a crown, which covers the whole tooth, an onlay preserves more of your natural tooth structure.
Onlays can also help prevent further damage by strengthening the tooth and offering better protection than a filling alone.
How Does the Onlay Process Work?
Getting an onlay usually requires two visits to your dentist.
First Visit: Preparation and Impressions
Your dentist will clean the decayed area of your tooth and shape it for the onlay. An impression of the tooth is taken, which is sent to a lab to create a custom onlay. A temporary filling will be placed to protect the tooth while the onlay is being made.
Second Visit: Placement and Bonding
Once the onlay is ready, it will be fitted onto your tooth. Your dentist will check for proper fit and adjust it as necessary. The onlay is then bonded to your tooth with a durable adhesive, restoring the tooth’s function and appearance.
Onlays are durable and can last for many years if properly cared for.
Benefits of Onlay Restorations
Onlays offer several advantages:
- Durability: Porcelain and gold onlays are strong and resistant to wear, making them a long-lasting option.
- Natural Appearance: Porcelain onlays are designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, offering a highly aesthetic result.
- Preservation of Tooth Structure: Onlays cover a large part of the tooth while preserving more of the natural tooth than a crown would.
Dr. Alex Rubinov: Expert Care for Restorative Dentistry
Dr. Alex Rubinov, a skilled dentist in New York, is experienced in various restorative procedures, including onlay restorations. If you need a smile makeover or a solution for a damaged tooth, Dr. Rubinov offers expert care and guidance. His focus on general dentistry makes sure your dental health is in the best hands.
An onlay restoration is a great option if you have a large cavity or damaged tooth but do not need a full crown. It offers strength, durability, and a natural look while preserving more of your original tooth. If you are dealing with tooth decay or damage, speak to a dentist to find out if an onlay is the right solution for you.
