A dental onlay is a dental restoration for decayed or damaged teeth. Generally, the fitting procedure takes a minimum of two dental appointments. At the first visit, the dentist will prepare the tooth for the onlay and fit the permanent onlay restoration at the second visit. Continue reading to learn more about how the process works.
Dental onlays are called indirect restorations. They are pre-molded and bonded over the chewing surface of the teeth, extending over the biting portion (the cusps). The dentist might decide to use an onlay if the tooth structure is weak, and the use of a regular filling will not be enough to support the tooth. Alternatively, the onlay could be a conservative alternative to a dental crown and avoid the need to remove healthy tooth structure.
To fit the onlay, the dentist will first prepare the tooth. The process takes place in one dental visit. First, the general dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the tooth and minimize discomfort during the process. Afterward, they will clean the cavity or damaged area down to the healthy part of the tooth using special tools. The removal process will be as conservative as possible to ensure that most of the natural tooth structure is preserved.
If the cavity is large, it may take a while to remove all the decayed and damaged portion of the tooth completely. Next, the dentist will make a dental impression of the prepared tooth. To protect the tooth while the patient waits for the permanent onlay to be created, the dentist will make and fit a temporary restoration over the tooth. The tooth impressions are sent to the dental laboratory to produce the final onlay, a process that may take seven to 10 days.
Before the final restoration is in place, it is important to care for the temporary onlay. If the temporary restoration falls out, the inner layer of the tooth will be unprotected, and the exposed tooth nerves may cause pain. Also, patients need to avoid flossing around the tooth or using the tooth to chew (especially on sticky or hard foods) while waiting for the final restoration.
Fitting the permanent onlay happens at the second dental appointment. When the permanent restoration is ready, the dentist will take off the temporary onlay. They will clean the tooth properly before placing the onlay. After checking the fit and bite alignment of the new restoration, they will bond it permanently over the tooth to complete the process.
A dental onlay strengthens the teeth and improves its appearance. Porcelain or ceramic materials are often used for the front teeth because they are customizable. The seal is also durable and ensures that the onlay lasts a long time on the tooth.
Tooth preparation for a dental onlay takes a dental appointment. At the second appointment, the inlay will be placed over the tooth. If you have a decayed or damaged tooth, you need to book an appointment with the general dentist to discuss dental restoration options.
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