Dental Onlays

A dental onlay is similar to an inlay but has a larger coverage area than an inlay and extends over the cusps of one or more teeth. Instead of fitting snugly between the tooth’s biting surfaces as with an inlay, it extends over the sides of the tooth or teeth it covers. An onlay is used when one or more back molars have mild to moderate tooth decay or damage. Onlays also restore the large chewing surfaces at the back of the mouth after tooth loss. They may be able to provide a little more strength than a filling when the damage is more extensive. This is why they are often referred to as partial crowns. At Lala Dental, an onlay may be crafted from gold or porcelain. Porcelain can be color-matched to the shade of natural teeth so that the restoration is not evident in the mouth. Gold is a good option for restorations that must withstand the pressure caused by heavy chewing.

The Procedure for Dental Onlays 

The placement of an onlay requires two visits. During the first visit, we will prep the tooth by removing damaged areas and shaping the surface to accommodate the restoration. Impressions are taken and used to create your custom onlay. Your permanent restoration will be bonded in place and polished at your second appointment for a beautiful, natural-looking smile.

The Benefits of Dental Onlays

A dental onlay protects the entire chewing surface of a tooth. It is similar to a dental crown but is a more conservative restoration. Rather than cover all teeth like a crown, an onlay only covers part of the tooth’s biting surface. An onlay can be ideal when a tooth is too damaged for a filling or inlay but does not require a full dental crown. They are sometimes called partial crowns and can be made of porcelain or gold, depending on patient preference.

Because they are made in a dental lab, these restorations can be customized to the shade and shape of the surrounding teeth for the most realistic-looking results possible. Repairs to teeth that are too damaged or compromised for other restorations will be strengthened with an onlay. 

If Dr. Meshkin recommends an onlay for a damaged or decayed tooth, discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this treatment so you can make an informed choice about your oral health needs. Get in touch with Lala Dental at 895 Moraga Rd Suite 6, Lafayette, CA 94549, or call (925) 385-8858 to learn more about dental onlays.