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What is a Dental Onlay?

Similar to a dental inlay or overlay, an onlay is a larger repair to the biting surface of a back molar. The repair is done with porcelain or a composite resin and is very durable. Also, dental onlays are made to appear like natural colored teeth and enhance a patient’s natural smile.

How are Dental Onlays Used?

Dental onlays are very similar to inlays or overlays. They are used to repair damage to the biting surface of a back molar and can repair damage such as large cavities , broken or cracked teeth, or to replace failing or old metal fillings . Unlike inlays or overlays, however, dental onlays are used to repair several molars at the same time.

Onlay Materials

Dental onlays are most commonly made of porcelain or a composite resin material. Since porcelain is easy to match to the natural color of a patient’s teeth, it is the preferred material for cosmetic purposes.

Dental Onlay Procedure

Dental onlays are placed in a two-visit process. On the first visit, the dentist will make an impression of the teeth to be repaired and send it to the lab to make the onlay. The surface of the teeth will be cleaned and damage removed, and a temporary onlay will be placed on the teeth.

On the second visit, the temporary onlay is removed and the permanent onlay is placed on the biting surface of the teeth.

Adjunct Dental Procedures

Occasionally, a dentist will recommend adjunct cosmetic dental procedures to enhance a patient’s smile and help with a patient’s dental hygiene . In cases where a patient has teeth that are stained or have become dull with age, a dentist may recommend a teeth whitening procedure to compliment the new dental work. Also, the dentist might recommend straightening procedures like braces, particularly if damage to the teeth occurs as a result of misalignment of the teeth.

Benefits of Dental Onlays

• Dental onlays are made of materials that look and feel like natural teeth, enhancing a patient’s smile.
• Dental onlays are strong and can last over 30 years with proper care.
• Dental onlays preserve remaining teeth and strengthen them.
• Dental onlays reduce the need for future dental repairs.

Dental Onlay Maintenance

Maintenance of dental onlays is similar to other dental work, requiring normal, everyday brushing and flossing. Regular visits to the dentist and cleanings by a dental hygienist are also recommended to maintain the health of teeth and gums. Occasionally, a dental onlay will need repair or replacement.

Summary

Dental onlays are an excellent alternative to dental crowns . Onlays are made of porcelain or composite resin materials and look and feel like natural teeth, enhancing a patient’s natural smile. Dental onlays are completed in two visits; the first visit removes the damaged areas of the teeth and prepares the teeth for the permanent onlay. The permanent onlay is placed on the second visit. Permanent onlays offer the ability to preserve the natural teeth and reduce the need for future repairs or damage. With proper maintenance, dental onlays can last for up to 30 years.