What is a Dental Onlay?
When most people get a cavity, they often think that a trip to the dentist will result in a filling, a crown, or in the worst-case scenario, a root canal to fix the issue. Though all these treatments for cavities and dental decay are common, most people have not heard of some of the alternative options that may be available to them. Dental onlays are one such alternative that your dentist might offer for a specific dental problem. In this short example, we explain what a dental onlay is, when you might need a dental onlay, and why Concierge Dental is the best option for people looking for the most advanced, specialized, and professional dental work in the Western New York region.
What is a Dental Only?
For small cavities or the beginning stages of dental decay, most dentists will rely on simple fillings. When the decay has gone deeper, or if there is a large fracture in the tooth that needs to be fixed, dental crowns are often the option of choice. But what about those times when a simple filling will do the trick, but a full-sized crown might be too large and invasive? Dental onlays and inlays are what many dental professionals will turn to in these situations. A dental only, then, offers an “in-between” alternative when dentists need a solution that is “just the right size” to fill in those gaps caused by dental decay that is larger than what a normal filling can cover.
A dental inlay is thus significantly more substantial than a filling, yet much less intrusive than a crown, which involves reshaping the tooth. If you have ever wondered “what is a tooth onlay?” you´re not alone. Dental inlays and onlays are less commonly used than fillings and crowns.
Whereas a dental inlay fills in cavities and hollows in a tooth in the areas between the cusps, a dental onlay is a satisfactory solution for a larger area, including the cusps. A dental onlay is like a crown, however it does not cover the entire surface of the affected tooth.
Both dental inlays, dental onlays, and crowns tend to be made from the same materials. The main difference is the percentage of the tooth surface area they cover to properly protect when there is tooth decay.
What is an Onlay Dental Procedure?
If your dentist recommends an onlay dental procedure, it will be based on the depth and scope of the dental decay from which you are suffering. Onlays are the preferred solution when a patient suffers from significant decay and damage to the top layer of a tooth. Your dental professional will opt for an onlay when the cavity is too big to fill with amalgam fillings. He or she may also recommend an onlay if there is a risk that the tooth could crack or chip due to the size of the cavity or decay.
A dental onlay will not only protect the decaying area but will also strengthen the tooth. Just as with a regular filling, your dentist will drill out the decayed cavity after applying anesthetic. Once the hole is drilled, the dental professional will use a temporary onlay over the cavity. That impression will then be sent for the manufacture of a permanent one that is specifically made to fit the cavity. These onlays can be made from porcelain or composite material. Once the permanent onlay is placed in the mouth, it will serve a similar function to a crown while only covering a portion of the affected tooth.
Why Hire Concierge Dental Group for a Dental Onlay Procedure?
Here at Concierge Dental Group our professional team of dentists has years of experience in providing the highest quality dental care to people in Western New York. We know when a simple filling is the best option, when a dental onlay might be the best option, and when a full-on crown might be the only option to save the tooth.
We are proud to be able to provide personalized treatment for each of our patients. From a baby´s first tooth to dental implants for senior citizens, we know that taking care of your teeth is a lifelong responsibility. To that end, we emphasize lasting relationships and proficient treatment options. Furthermore, all our professional staff are trained to be helpful and courteous. If you have a certain dental problem, our extensive range of services can be your solution. Our professional staff have years of experience in installing dental onlays, crowns, and other treatment options.
We also offer flexibility in scheduling so that you can make an appointment at a time that fits your schedule. To fulfill your need for excellent results, we perform a comprehensive consultation that will help us develop the most appropriate treatment plan.
We have offices in Williamsville, Clarence, Lancaster, Lockport, Orchard Park, and West Seneca, thus enabling us to offer the best dental care for people in all Western New York. Call us today at (716) 333-3333 to schedule your appointment, or book a free consultation here. You will be glad you did. We look forward to seeing you smile!