What are Dental Onlays and How are They Used?

As the world of dentistry continues to evolve and progress, there are many ways to restore and repair the teeth, such as dental onlays. Dentists use onlays every day as a way to treat damaged teeth as well as provide preventative measures to teeth that may become damaged if ignored.

When considering restorative options for the teeth, it is important to be aware of all of your options and dental onlays are one of those great options. Keep reading to find out everything that you need to know about dental onlays.

Dental onlays

What exactly are dental onlays?

These pre-molded dental restorations fit directly over the biting surface of a person’s tooth. Often times, cavities occur on the chewing surface of a tooth because that is where the tooth is most vulnerable. But, with the help of a dental onlay, that damaged surface can be covered completely.

How are dental onlays used?

Dental onlays are placed for a number of reasons. But most commonly, they are used when a person has damage on their teeth. A few reasons include:

• Dentists may decide to place an onlay on a person’s tooth if the tooth’s structure is weak. The onlay would restore the weakened structure of the tooth and make it stronger so that it will not crack further
• Onlays may also be used as an alternative to a dental crown to avoid removing the healthy parts of a tooth
• Another alternative that onlays may replace is that of dental fillings. Sometimes dental fillings are not strong enough and may not prevent cracking. However, dental onlays can seal the tooth and ensure that cracking does not occur
• Dentists can also place dental onlays over a person’s tooth in order to prevent further damage from occurring. A lot of teeth become weak over time due to natural erosion, and often times, there are not a lot of ways to prevent further erosion. However, the placement of dental onlays can help in the prevention of more erosion

Having dental onlays placed

When a dentist places onlays over a person’s tooth, the person does have to undergo some preparation in order for the onlay to do its job properly. The dentist will remove the decayed areas on the natural tooth and then impressions will have to be taken so that the onlay can be custom-created. Often times, a temporary onlay will be placed while the real permanent one is created in a lab.

Once the permanent onlay has been created, the dentist will fit it over the prepared tooth. Any signs of roughness or unevenness will be checked for once placed to ensure comfort and durability.

In conclusion

Dental onlays are said to last a lifetime because of their durability. They are great methods of treatment for repairing and restoring teeth that are in need. Being aware of all dental restorative options is important when considering your options. If you have questions, then reach out to our office so that we can help you further. Give us a call or stop by today!

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