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How Dentists Decide If a Dental Onlay is Right for You

Updated: Oct 10, 2024

How Dentists Decide If a Dental Onlay is Right for You

When you're faced with dental decay or damage, your dentist has several restorative options at their disposal. Depending on the extent of the problem, they may recommend an inlay, onlay, or crown. But how do they determine which treatment is right for you? Imagine you have a cavity that's too large for a simple filling but hasn't compromised the entire tooth structure. In this case, an onlay might be the perfect solution. Alternatively, if the decay is confined to the grooves of your tooth, an inlay could suffice. For more extensive damage affecting most of your tooth, a crown would likely be necessary. Understanding these distinctions can help you better navigate your dental care options.


Table of Contents

What are Dental Onlays?
When are Dental Onlays Recommended?
What to Expect During the Dental Onlay Procedure
Dental Inlays vs. Dental Onlays
Dental Crowns vs. Dental Onlays
FAQ on Dental Onlays
Conclusion

 

What are Dental Onlays?

Dental onlays are a type of dental restoration used to treat damaged or decayed teeth when the cavity is too large for a conventional filling but not severe enough to warrant a full crown. These "indirect fillings" are custom-made in a laboratory and then bonded to the tooth, preserving more of the natural tooth structure compared to a crown. Dental onlays cover the biting surface and cusps of the affected tooth, providing a durable, long-lasting solution. They can be crafted from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, or resin, offering both strength and aesthetic appeal for patients visiting dental clinics.


 

When are Dental Onlays Recommended?

Dental onlays are recommended when tooth decay or damage is too extensive for a simple filling but not severe enough to require a full crown. According to dental experts, these "partial crowns" are ideal for treating decay that affects the tooth's cusps or biting surface. Onlays provide a more conservative approach than dental crowns, preserving more of your natural tooth structure. They're particularly suitable for repairing fractured or cracked rear teeth with moderate damage. Made from durable materials like porcelain, dental onlays can last for decades, offering a long-lasting solution that strengthens your tooth and prevents further damage.


 

What to Expect During the Dental Onlay Procedure

The dental onlay procedure typically involves two visits to your dental clinic. During the first appointment, your dentist will remove any decay or damage from the tooth and take impressions. These impressions are sent to a lab where your custom onlay is crafted. A temporary filling protects your tooth in the meantime.


At your second visit, the dentist will remove the temporary filling, clean the tooth, and permanently bond the onlay using dental cement. Dental onlays can be made from porcelain, ceramic, or composite resin to match your natural tooth color. You may experience some sensitivity initially, but this should subside quickly. With proper care, your onlay can last for many years, providing a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution.


 

Dental Inlays vs. Dental Onlays

Dental inlays and dental onlays are both custom-made restorations used to repair damaged teeth, but they differ in their coverage area. Inlays fit within the cusps of a tooth, making them ideal for treating decay or damage in the center of the tooth. Onlays, on the other hand, extend over one or more cusps, offering more extensive coverage for larger areas of damage. Both options are more durable and aesthetically pleasing than traditional fillings, and they preserve more of the tooth's natural structure compared to dental crowns. Your dentist will recommend the most appropriate option based on the extent of damage and location of the affected tooth.


 

Dental Crowns vs. Dental Onlays

When it comes to restoring damaged teeth, dental clinics offer various options, including dental crowns and dental onlays. Dental crowns completely cover the tooth's surface above the gum line, providing comprehensive protection for severely damaged or decayed teeth. In contrast, dental onlays, often called partial crowns, cover only the damaged portion of the tooth, typically the cusp or elevated part.

Crowns are ideal for extensively damaged teeth, while onlays are suitable for large areas of decay that can't be addressed with fillings or dental inlays. Your dentist will assess the extent of damage to determine which option is best for your specific case.


 

FAQ on Dental Onlays


What is a dental onlay?

A dental onlay is a custom-made restoration that fits onto the damaged part of a tooth. Unlike dental crowns that cover the entire tooth, onlays only cover the affected area. Dentists often recommend onlays when the damage is too extensive for a simple filling but not severe enough to warrant a full crown. Dental clinics use onlays to preserve more of your natural tooth structure while effectively restoring function and aesthetics.


How do onlays differ from inlays and crowns?

Dental inlays are similar to onlays but fit within the cusps of a tooth, while dental crowns cover the entire visible portion. Your dentist will determine which option is best based on the extent of damage and your specific needs.


 

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the differences between onlays, inlays, and crowns can help you navigate your dental treatment options. If you have moderate decay or damage that's too extensive for a filling but doesn't require a full crown, an onlay may be your best choice. For smaller areas of decay within the cusps of your tooth, an inlay could be suitable. When significant damage or decay affects a large portion of your tooth, a full crown becomes necessary. Your dentist will assess the extent of your tooth's damage and recommend the most appropriate treatment to restore your smile and maintain your oral health. Always consult with your dental professional to determine the best course of action for your unique situation.


If you have any inquiries about maintaining your oral health, don't hesitate to visit Maple Dental, our trusted dental clinic in Kovan. Your dental care is in the best hands as our experienced dentists will provide you with personalised guidance to ensure that your dental health is at its best.


To find out more about the services Maple Dental Provides, click the link below! https://www.mapledental.sg/services

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