An onlay restoration is a type of dental restoration offered by the family dentist Reno that is used to repair teeth that are damaged or decayed. It is a conservative approach that aims to preserve as much of the natural tooth structure as possible, while also providing a strong and durable repair. Let’s explore onlay restorations further!
What is an onlay restoration?
An onlay restoration is a custom-made filling that is made of ceramic, porcelain, or composite resin. It is used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay, trauma, or wear and tear. Unlike traditional fillings, which are placed directly into the tooth, an onlay restoration is created outside of the mouth and then cemented into place.
Onlays are indicated in the following situations:
- Large fillings: Onlays are ideal for teeth with large fillings that are at risk of cracking or breaking.
- Cracked teeth: Onlays can be used to repair teeth that are cracked or fractured.
- Worn teeth: Onlays can be used to repair teeth that are worn down due to grinding or erosion.
- Decay: Onlays can be used to repair teeth that are decayed and need a larger restoration than a filling.
- Weak teeth: Onlays can be used to strengthen teeth that are weak or fragile.
- Teeth with existing fillings: Onlays can be used to replace existing fillings that are old or failing.
- Teeth with root canals: Onlays can be used to repair teeth that have had root canals.
- Teeth with crowns: Onlays can be used as an alternative to crowns in some cases.
- Teeth with dental work: Onlays can be used to repair teeth with existing dental work, such as bridges or implants.
- Cosmetic purposes: Onlays can be used for cosmetic purposes to improve the appearance of teeth.
Benefits of onlay restoration
- Conservative approach: Onlay restorations are a conservative approach to tooth repair, as they preserve more of the natural tooth structure than traditional fillings or crowns.
- Strong and durable: Onlay restorations are made of strong and durable materials that can withstand the forces of chewing and biting.
- Aesthetically pleasing: Onlay restorations can be made to match the color and shape of the surrounding teeth, making them virtually invisible.
- Long-lasting: Onlay restorations can last for many years with proper care and maintenance.
- Versatile: Onlay restorations can be used to repair a wide range of teeth, from molars to incisors.
How are onlay restorations fabricated and placed?
The process of onlays typically involves the following steps:
- Tooth preparation: The tooth is prepared by removing any decay, old fillings, or damaged tooth structure.
- Oral impressions: Impressions are taken of the prepared tooth and surrounding teeth.
- Temporary restoration: A temporary restoration is placed on the tooth to protect it until the onlay is ready.
- Fabrication: The onlay is fabricated in a dental laboratory using the impressions taken earlier.
- Try-in: The onlay is tried in to ensure a proper fit and bite.
- Adjustments: Any necessary adjustments are made to the onlay to ensure a proper fit and bite.
- Cementation: The onlay is cemented into place using dental cement.
- Polishing: The onlay is polished to a high shine to match the surrounding teeth.
- Follow-up: A follow-up appointment is scheduled to check the onlay and ensure it is functioning properly.
Final takeaway
An onlay restoration is a conservative approach to tooth repair that offers many benefits, including strength, durability, and aesthetics. By preserving more of the natural tooth structure than traditional fillings or crowns, onlay restorations provide a long-lasting solution for teeth that are damaged or decayed. With proper care and maintenance, onlay restorations can last for many years, making them a popular choice for patients seeking a reliable and aesthetically pleasing solution.
