Dental Onlays
Dental onlays are a more conservative approach to tooth restoration than full crowns. The are used to repair rear teeth that have mild to moderate tooth decay, or for cracked teeth where the damage does not warrant a dental crown. Onlays are created when bonded material -porcelain, composite resin, or sometimes gold - extends to one or more cusps of the tooth. What are the benefits of inlays and onlays?
- Natural look: Onlays have a natural tooth color that makes them virtually invisible compared to metal fillings.
- Great fit: Onlays will not expand or contract based on temperature like metal fillings.
- Longevity: Onlays can last up to 30 years, longer than any other type of filling.
- Minimal tooth structure removed: Onlays require minimal removal of a tooth’s surface, helping to preserve the maximum amount of healthy tooth structure while restoring decayed or damaged areas.
How It’s Done
Typically, two visits are required for the placements of onlays. During the first visit, your dentist will take an impression of your tooth, which will be sent to a lab to create the permanent onlay. Before you leave, Dr. Bosack will fit your tooth with a temporary onlay to keep the tooth protected between visits. During your second visit, she will remove the temporary protective material and fit your tooth with the permanent onlay received from the lab.
