Ceramic Onlays
Ceramic dental onlays are larger than dental fillings, but they are a more conservative alternative to full dental crowns. These individually fabricated restorations can be a great way to repair and strengthen damaged molars.
An onlay will sit directly on the flat top of your molar. It will fit over the sharp, pointed cusp and extend partway down the sides of your tooth. Onlays are sometimes called “partial crowns.” Like crowns, your onlays will be custom-crafted to match your natural teeth, and they can be fabricated from several different materials. Although gold is strong and durable, we often recommend tooth-coloured composite or porcelain for a more natural appearance. These materials provide a lifelike sparkle. They also come in a range of natural-looking shades, so Dr. Khan can choose a colour that blends with your surrounding teeth. To make sure your onlay looks natural and maintains the natural force of your bite, your dentist will take a series of impressions. These measurements will go to our partner lab, so the technicians can create a restoration that is a near-perfect fit for your tooth.
How Dental Onlays Can Benefit Your Oral Health
An onlay can cover a cracked tooth, as well as a cavity that is too large for a filling. Because an onlay is much smaller than a dental crown, Dr. Khan will need to remove much less of your tooth. The advanced porcelain will form a strong bond with your tooth, strengthening the outer structure. The onlay will also prevent bacteria from entering through the crack or cavity. In this way, the restoration can prevent the need for root canal therapy, extraction, and other more extensive restorative care.
Are You A Good Candidate For Dental Onlays?
If you suffer from any of the following dental concerns, an onlay may be the optimal solution:
A large cavity
A cracked or fractured tooth
A severely worn tooth
An otherwise weakened tooth