Porcelain Onlays

A porcelain onlay restoration is a custom made filling made of tooth-colored porcelain.

Onlays are popular because they resemble your natural tooth.  An onlay is sometimes also referred to as a partial crown.  Onlays are made by a professional dental laboratory or CEREC System and is permanently cemented onto the tooth by your dentist.

Onlays can be utilized to conservatively repair teeth that have large defective fillings or have been damaged by decay or trauma.  Onlays are an ideal alternative to crowns because less tooth structure is removed.  Onlays are essentially identical to inlays with the exception that one or more of the chewing cusps have also been affected and need to be included in the restoration.

As with most dental restorations, onlays are not always permanent and may someday require replacement.  They are highly durable and will last many years, giving you a beautiful long lasting smile.

Reasons for onlay restorations:

• Broken or fractured teeth.
• Cosmetic enhancement.
• Decayed teeth.
• Fractured fillings.
• Large fillings.

What does getting an onlay involve?

An onlay procedure usually requires two appointments.  The first appointment will include taking several highly accurate impressions (molds) that will be used to create your custom onlay and a temporary restoration.  While the tooth is numb, your dentist will remove any decay and/or old filling materials.  The space will be thoroughly cleaned and carefully prepared, shaping the surface to properly fit an onlay restoration.  A temporary filling will be applied to protect the tooth while your onlay is created.

At your second appointment your new onlay will be carefully and precisely cemented into place.  A few adjustments may be necessary to ensure a proper fit and comfortable bite.