If you have a damaged tooth, you’re probably given the choice between a filling or a crown. But there’s a third option that may be overlooked: the dental onlay. You may be looking for “onlays near me” if you’re looking for a solution to make your dental treatment last longer.
An onlay may be the alternative to a filling or crown. It’s stronger, more durable and leaves more of your tooth intact. Knowing when and why this treatment might be chosen can better inform your dental treatment options.
Understand a Dental Onlay?
A dental onlay is a type of restoration used to restore a tooth with moderate damage. It is used to repair one or more cusps (the biting edges) of a tooth but not the whole tooth as would a crown.
The material used for onlays is usually porcelain, composite resin or gold. The most common material is porcelain which matches the appearance of your teeth.
If you’ve searched “onlays near me”, you might have come across them being called “partial crowns”. This is because they are more extensive than fillings, but not as invasive as crowns.
Onlays vs Fillings
Fillings are typically the first line of defence against small cavities or damage. They are effective when the damage is minimal and the tooth is still healthy.
But fillings have limitations:
- They can reduce the strength of larger areas of the tooth
- They might not be as durable with strong biting forces
- They may be more prone to fracture or wear in large fillings
An onlay is a better option when the area is too damaged for a filling but not so bad a crown is required.
Many who search for “onlays near me” are likely to find themselves in this predicament where a filling alone just won’t be strong enough.
Onlays vs Crowns
Crowns are designed for more severely damaged or weakened teeth. They encase the entire tooth, restoring its shape, size and strength.
Crowns are good, but they require extensive removal of the tooth. This is where onlays excel.
Onlays have several benefits compared to crowns:
- They are more tooth-conserving
- They provide less reshaping of the tooth
- They can still offer great strength and support
The decision to use one or the other will depend on your tooth. If you’re searching for “onlays near me”, you may be searching for a more minimally invasive treatment.
When Should I Get an Onlay?
You might need a dental onlay if:
- There is a large cavity not in the center of the tooth
- The tooth has a moderate cavity or damage on its chewing surface
- There is sufficient tooth left to not need a crown
Your dentist will want to save as much of your tooth as possible. Onlays can provide that, strength without compromises.
At Clove Dental Santa Monica, we have patients who have come to us first thinking they needed to have crowns, but after assessment, it turns out that they actually need onlays.
Why Choose an Onlay?
People who search for “onlays near me” are likely seeking strength and aesthetics. Onlays provide both.
1. Strength and Longevity
Onlays are created to withstand the rigours of chewing. When well cared for, they can last a long time.
2. Natural Appearance
Porcelain onlays are designed to blend with your natural teeth, so they’re hardly noticeable.
3. Tooth Preservation
Onlays preserve more of your natural tooth structure, promoting better health in the long run.
4. Less Chance of Cracking
Onlays fit so well they evenly distribute chewing forces, which helps prevent fractures.
At Clove Dental Santa Monica, we aim to preserve your natural teeth, and onlays can help.
What to Expect: The Procedure
Onlays are typically placed in two appointments.
First Visit:
The faulty part of the tooth is removed, and the tooth is cleaned. An impression is taken to make a custom onlay. A temporary restoration is applied.
Second Visit:
The onlay is cemented in place and fitted to your tooth.
If you’re looking for “onlays near me”, the fact the procedure is quick and simple may be comforting.
How to Know If You Need One
If you’re experiencing:
- Pain when chewing
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- A cracked or worn tooth
- A large, worn filling
Only a dental examination can tell you what treatment is required, but knowing a bit more can help guide you.
Why is This Alternative Not Explored?
Dentistry has traditional approaches, fillings for small holes and crowns for large ones. Onlays lie somewhere in between, and not all cases are considered with this option.
But these days dentistry is more conservative. Conservation of tooth structure is more important than ever, and onlays are well suited for this approach.
Those who search “onlays near me” are often progressive, looking for restorations that are both strong and conservative.
Conclusion
The decision to have a filling, onlay or crown is based on how damaged your tooth is and what you want in the future. Fillings are minimalistic, while crowns are all-encompassing, but onlays are versatile and often overlooked.
If you’re looking for a restoration that is protective and maximises tooth preservation, an onlay could be perfect. Searching “onlays near me” may lead to a cost-effective and long-lasting solution.
Knowing the best options helps you make the best decisions for your dental health, and sometimes that is the one that’s not the first one discussed.