What Is An Onlay In Dentistry?


Inlays & Onlays Baluke Dental Studios
Inlays & Onlays Baluke Dental Studios from baluke.com

Introduction

Dental treatments have evolved over the years, and one of the most popular restorations is an onlay. Many people often mistake onlays for fillings or crowns, but they are a unique type of restoration that can help restore the function and appearance of a damaged tooth. In this article, we will take a closer look at onlays and what they entail.

What is an Onlay?

An onlay is a dental restoration that is used to repair a damaged tooth that has a cavity or a fracture that is too large for a filling but not extensive enough to require a crown. An onlay is a custom-made restoration that is created in a dental lab and is designed to fit precisely onto the tooth's surface, covering the damaged area.

How is an Onlay Placed?

The process of getting an onlay is similar to that of getting a crown. The dentist will first remove any decay or damaged portions of the tooth and then take an impression of the tooth. The impression is sent to a dental lab, where a custom-made onlay is created based on the specific needs of the patient. Once the onlay is ready, the dentist will bond it onto the tooth's surface using a strong dental adhesive.

Types of Materials Used for Onlays

Onlays can be made from a variety of materials, including gold, porcelain, and composite resin. Gold onlays tend to be the most durable and long-lasting, but they are also the most expensive. Porcelain onlays are more aesthetically pleasing and can be matched to the color of the surrounding teeth, but they are not as durable as gold onlays. Composite resin onlays are the most affordable option, but they are not as strong as the other two materials.

Advantages of Onlays

Onlays offer several advantages over other types of restorations. They are less invasive than crowns, as they require less removal of the tooth's structure. Onlays can also help preserve the tooth's natural structure, which can help prevent future issues. Additionally, onlays are custom-made to fit the tooth's specific needs, which can help improve both function and appearance.

Disadvantages of Onlays

Onlays do have some disadvantages that should be considered. They can be more expensive than fillings, and they may not be covered by dental insurance. Additionally, the process of getting an onlay can take longer than getting a filling, as the restoration needs to be created in a dental lab.

Care for Onlays

To ensure the longevity of an onlay, it is essential to maintain good oral hygiene practices. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups. It is also important to avoid chewing on hard objects, such as ice or hard candy, as this can damage the onlay.

Conclusion

In conclusion, onlays are a popular and effective dental restoration that can help restore the function and appearance of a damaged tooth. They are custom-made to fit the tooth's specific needs and offer several advantages over other types of restorations. However, they do have some disadvantages that should be considered, and proper care is essential to ensure their longevity. If you think an onlay may be right for you, talk to your dentist to learn more.

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