Onlays

Onlays are used as an alternative to full-coverage dental crowns. These dental restorations offer a well-fitting, strong, long-lasting solution to tooth decay. Onlays can also be used in place of dental fillings. While dental fillings are molded into place within the mouth during a single dental visit, onlays are generally fabricated in a dental lab before being fitted and bonded to the damaged tooth.

An onlay restoration is considered when the extent of the damage requires the inclusion of one or more cusps (the pointed portion of the tooth on the biting surface). The material is bonded within the center of the tooth. Onlays are highly durable and with proper care, can last for many years. Some reasons for needing these restorations include large, failing restorations, lost fillings, or fractured cusps.

Advantages and benefits of onlays include:

Tooth color – Onlays are not likely to discolor over time.

Superior fit – This conservative approach preserves as many healthy teeth as possible.

Strength and stability – Onlays are extremely stable restorative solutions for the treatment of decay.

Tooth structure safeguard – Since the fit is tailored at all edges and preparation is minimal, your tooth will be easier to clean.

Weak tooth protection – An onlay can protect the weak areas of the tooth and the procedure does not require the complete reshaping of the tooth.