An onlay restoration is a custom
made filling made of composite material, gold, or
tooth-colored porcelain. Porcelain onlays are
popular because they resemble your natural tooth.
An onlay is sometimes also referred to as a
partial crown. Porcelain onlays are made by a
professional dental laboratory and is permanently
cemented onto the tooth by your dentist.
Onlays can be utilized to
conservatively repair teeth that have large
defective fillings or have been damaged by decay or
trauma. Onlays are an ideal alternative to crowns
(caps) because less tooth structure is removed in
the preparation of onlays. Onlays are
essentially identical to inlays with the
exception that one or more of the chewing cusps have
also been affected and need to be included in the
restoration.
As with most dental restorations,
onlays are not always permanent and may someday
require replacement. They are highly durable and
will last many years, giving you a beautiful long
lasting smile.
Reasons for
onlay restorations:
What does
getting an onlay involve?
An onlay procedure usually
requires two appointments. Your first appointment
will include taking several highly accurate
impressions (molds) that will be used to create your
custom onlay and a temporary restoration.
While the tooth is numb, the
dentist will remove any decay and/or old filling
materials. The space will then be thoroughly
cleaned and carefully prepared, shaping the surface
to properly fit an onlay restoration. A temporary
filling will be applied to protect the tooth while
your onlay is made by a dental laboratory.
At your second appointment, your
new onlay will be carefully and precisely cemented
into place. A few adjustments may be necessary to
ensure a proper fit and that your bite is
comfortable.
You will receive care instruction
at the conclusion of your treatment. Good oral
hygiene practices, a proper diet, and regular dental
visits will aid in the life of your new onlay
