A dental onlay procedure restores and strengthens a tooth that has decayed or been damaged. They are less invasive than a dental crown and do not require the removal of parts of the tooth. Typically, this procedure takes two visits. One for preparing the tooth and the second for bonding. An onlay provides a natural look, depending on the material used, and increases the longevity of the tooth by maintaining more of the healthy structure.
If you are looking for a conservative alternative to dental crowns an inlay or onlay may be the stronger, longer lasting solution. Inlays are bonded with the center of a tooth while an onlay addresses more damage that includes one or more of the tooth’s cusps or even full coverage of the biting surface.
You should also inform your dentist of any medical history. Occasionally, antibiotics may be pre-prescribed for the procedure for those with heart murmurs, replacement joints or other medical conditions. A local anesthetic will be used to numb the mouth when the dental onlay procedure occurs.
Following the first visit where the tooth is prepared, a temporary onlay is placed. While wearing this temporary onlay it is important to take good care of it. Do not floss around the tooth or eat chewy, sticky or hard foods. Use a mouthwash after drinking or eating.
The dentist will remove the temporary onlay care on the second visit when it is time to place the permanent one.
An onlay preserves more of the healthy tooth than other procedures, like crowns and veneers. For minimal to moderate tooth decay they provide an excellent alternative to ensure the longevity of the tooth. Aesthetically they hold their color longer than tooth-colored resin fillings.
Like crowns, an onlay works to preserve the tooth. It does this by preventing cracks from spreading and it has the advantage of leaving more of the tooth’s natural structure intact.
There are a number of materials to choose from and each has its own benefits. Porcelain offers a pretty smile while resin or gold is for improved bite strength. These materials are constantly improving, so it is important to discuss options with the dentist.
Ceramic, resin, gold and other metals are used in creating onlays. Metals are cemented onto the tooth while ceramic and resin are typically bonded.
Not all dentists perform inlays and onlays. Choose one with experience and training.
Onlays are extremely stable and rarely fail, but a dentist who is familiar with checking for a smooth fit is essential for comfort. The bite will be examined following the fitting to make sure there are no problems.
It is important to arm yourself with knowledge prior to any dental procedure. By knowing what is available you can better make decisions that will impact you for years to come. By knowing what to expect you will be prepared to best take care of yourself throughout the entire process.
Are you considering dental onlays in the St George area? Get more dental onlay information at https://www.stgeorgedentalcare.com.
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