Address Moderate Dental Decay or Damage with an Onlay

An onlay can repair a tooth damaged by cracks, fractures, or decay in a conservative manner, so patients can avoid more extensive restorative treatments like a dental crown. Dr. Susana Moncada at Windermere Dental Group in Orlando, FL, uses advanced CEREC technology to create custom onlays that can be fabricated and placed on the same day as treatment. An onlay extends over the top edges of the tooth to provide strength and stability, while also protecting the tooth from further decay or damage.

An onlay extends over one or more cusps of the tooth to protect it from further damage.

What is an Onlay?

If the chewing surface of a molar is damaged, it can compromise your dental function and oral health. To repair the tooth, we may recommend an onlay. This restoration is designed to address cracks, chips, or decay that affects one or more cusps, or edges of the tooth surface. An onlay is also beneficial for cavities that extend beyond the cusps, down the side of tooth. Depending upon your needs, we can also replace an old silver amalgam filling with an onlay for a more pleasing appearance. 

At Windermere Dental Group we use advanced technology to not only deliver more accurate diagnoses, but also to provide the highest level of care.

In comparison to an onlay, an inlay is smaller in size and is used to repair damage or decay within the cusps.  Once the damage extends to at least one of the cusps, an onlay will be required. Both treatment options can help to address decay that is too extensive for a dental filling, but not quite severe enough for a dental crown.

Treatment Process

At Windermere Dental Group we use advanced technology to not only deliver more accurate diagnoses, but also to provide the highest level of care. During your examination, Dr. Moncada can use digital x-rays to capture detailed images of our teeth and jawbone. These will help her determine the extent and location of decay, so she can identify which restorative treatment is best suited for your needs.

Placement

If you require an onlay, we can first numb the tooth and surrounding tissues with a local anesthetic. Dr. Moncada can then clean the tooth and remove any compromised tissue to provide the healthiest foundation for your restoration. Next, we can take impressions of your smile, which will be sent to our on-site CEREC system. This advanced technology can fabricate your custom-made onlay in under one hour. Each onlay is tailored to match the natural shape and shade of your tooth. Once the onlay is complete, Dr. Moncada can check to ensure it fits properly in your smile before cementing it in place. 

Benefits of Onlays

Onlays provide many great benefits when compared to other restorative treatments.  While dental crowns are both lifelike and durable, they require us to remove more enamel during treatment to ensure a seamless fit. An onlay, on the other hand, allows Dr. Moncada to preserve more of the natural tooth structure. With an onlay, you will be able to enjoy:

• Improved dental function
• Long-lasting results
• Custom, secure fit
• Beautiful aesthetics
• More comfortable treatment

Made from durable porcelain, your onlay can last for many years if properly cared for.

Schedule Your Consultation

An onlay provides patients who have more significant decay or damage the opportunity to quickly and effectively repair their smile. If you are struggling with dental damage but looking for a more conservative approach to a dental crown, you may enjoy the benefits on an onlay. Contact our practice online today or call us to schedule your consultation with Dr. Moncada.