What Is the Purpose of a Dental Onlay?

When restoring damaged teeth, dental onlays are a great option that offers both durability and precision. Whether your tooth has suffered from decay, wear, or minor damage, a dental onlay can restore its shape, function, and strength without needing a full crown. In this guide, we’ll explore and understand the purpose of a dental onlay when required, the benefits of choosing one, and the process involved. Understanding how an onlay works will help you decide if you’re considering dental restoration options.

What Is a Dental Onlay?

A dental onlay in Concord is a restoration used to fix damaged parts of teeth with moderate damage or decay but not enough to require a full crown. Onlays are often called “partial crowns” because they cover a portion of the tooth, typically the biting surface. Unlike a filling applied directly to the damaged area, an onlay is custom-made to fit the tooth perfectly, offering more support and strength.

How Does an Onlay Work?

Onlays are designed to fit over the top of the tooth, covering one or more of its cusps (the raised points on the biting surface). They are typically used when the damage or decay is too severe for a standard filling but doesn’t need a full crown. The onlay helps to restore the tooth’s natural shape, allowing for normal chewing and biting while protecting the remaining healthy structure.
Onlays are often confused with inlays, which are also used for dental restorations. The key difference is that while inlays sit inside the tooth (between the cusps), onlays cover the outer, biting surface. Both inlay onlay options are valuable for different levels of damage.

When Is a Dental Onlay Needed?

There are several situations in which a dental onlay is the preferred choice for tooth restoration. Here are some common reasons:

Large Cavities

If a cavity is too large for a standard filling, an onlay may be necessary. Fillings are great for small areas of decay, but when the damage extends across the tooth, a filling may not provide enough strength. An onlay dental restoration is a durable solution that strengthens the tooth without needing a crown.

Cracked or Chipped Teeth

Teeth that have suffered from cracks or chips, especially in the back molars, often benefit from onlays. Since molars experience much pressure from chewing, onlays provide the necessary protection and reinforcement without covering the entire tooth.

Replacing Old Fillings

Sometimes, older fillings can wear down or leak, leading to further decay. Replacing the filling with an onlay might be better if the filling is large. This option offers more durability and a better seal to prevent future damage.

Preserving More Natural Tooth Structure

One of the primary benefits of onlays is their ability to save a greater portion of the original tooth structure compared to crowns. Crowns require significant tooth reshaping, while an onlay fits over the existing structure, only removing the damaged portion. This conservative approach is often recommended to save as much of the healthy tooth as possible.
If any of these situations apply to you, your dentist in Concord, NH, may recommend dental inlays and onlays as an effective treatment.

Benefits of Choosing a Dental Onlay

Onlays offer many benefits, making them an excellent choice for many patients. Let’s look at some of the key advantages:

1. Durability and Strength

Onlays are made from solid materials like porcelain, composite resin, or gold. These materials are very durable and can endure the pressure of chewing and biting, especially in molars. It makes them ideal for long-term restorations, strengthening, and protecting damaged teeth.

2. Conservative Treatment

One of the most significant benefits of onlays is their conservative nature. Because they only replace the damaged part of the tooth, they preserve more of your natural tooth structure. It is important because keeping as much of your original tooth as possible leads to better long-term outcomes.

3. Aesthetics

Onlays made from porcelain or composite resin Resin are crafted to match the natural color of your teeth, making it a great choice for visible areas of your mouth. They blend seamlessly with your surrounding teeth, providing functionality and an attractive appearance.

4. Customized Fit

Since onlays are custom-made for each patient, they provide a perfect fit. Your Concord dentist will take impressions of your tooth to ensure the onlay fits precisely, restoring the tooth’s natural shape and function. This precise fit also helps prevent bacteria from entering the restored area, reducing the risk of future decay.
These benefits make onlay dental solutions great for a strong, aesthetically pleasing, and long-lasting dental restoration.

The Process of Getting a Dental Onlay

Getting a dental onlay involves multiple steps, but it’s relatively straightforward. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Initial Consultation

The process begins with a consultation with your dentist, who will evaluate your tooth and discuss the best treatment options. If an onlay is recommended, your dentist will take impressions of your tooth to ensure the onlay is custom-made to fit perfectly.

2. Tooth Preparation

Upon the Onlay’s completion, the dentist will anesthetize the region around the tooth prior to excising any decaying or compromised sections. The tooth is then cleaned and shaped for the onlay.

3. Placement of the Onlay

After all the procedure tooth is prepared, the dentist will place the custom onlay on the tooth to check for fit and comfort. Once they are satisfied with the placement, The onlay will be securely attached to the tooth using a special adhesive. The dentist will then polish the onlay to ensure a smooth finish.

4. Final Adjustments

Once the onlay is glued in place, your dentist will make any necessary changes to make sure you can bite comfortably and that the tooth looks natural. The result is a durable restoration that blends perfectly with your surrounding teeth.
This process ensures that inlay dental or onlay restorations offer comfort and functionality, protecting your tooth for years.

Conclusion

Dental onlays are an excellent solution for patients who need to restore damaged teeth while preserving as much of their natural tooth structure as possible. They provide strength, durability, and a natural look, making them an ideal choice for molars and other high-pressure areas of the mouth. Whether you’re dealing with a large cavity, a cracked tooth, or need to replace an old filling, onlays provide a versatile and practical treatment option.

Is a Dental Onlay Right for You? Book an Appointment Today!

If you need a dental onlay or want to explore restoration options, contact Concord Dental Associates today. Our team specializes in Dental Inlays and Onlays in Concord, NH, offering personalized care to restore your teeth and protect your smile. Book your consultation now and find out how we can help!