Pinedale Dental

Dental Onlays

Published on February 9, 2010 by Dr. Kevin Kunard in Dental Care Tips,

When a tooth is too damaged to support a regular dental filling, but not damaged enough to require a dental crown, You have an option called a dental onlay.  Capping a damaged tooth unnecessarily with a dental crown removes more tooth structure than needed.  But a large dental filling can weaken the remaining structure of the tooth, causing the tooth to break, crack or eventually need a root canal.

The dental restoration that is many times overlooked is the dental onlay. Dental onlays fall between a dental crown and a filling. Dental onlays cover one or more cusps or the entire biting surface of the tooth.

Dental onlays are more durable and last longer than dental fillings. The size of the filling or onlay and the type of material you choose can help determine the life of your restoration. Dental onlays are typically made of composite, porcelain or gold.

If cared for properly dental onlays can last more than 20 years. However the most important factor for preserving the life of and dental restoration is practicing excellent oral hygiene which includes brushing flossing and regular dental visits.

There are two diferent types of dental restorations, direct and indirect. Direct restorations are made in the dental office and indirect are made in a dental lab. Typically onalys are considered to be indirect restorations but they can also be made in the dental office.

With advancements in dental technology there is a high tech option for making direct dental onlays: CEREC!! CEREC uses 3D computer imagery and other special equipment to produce porcelain restorations right in our office in about 2 hrs. By simply imaging or taking a picture of your tooth we can design and create dental onlays, inlays and dental crowns. No impressions, temporary crowns for 3 weeks that sometimes fall off, and best of all no need for a second appointment.

If you have any questions please feel free to discuss them with Dr. Kunard oreither of our fantastic assistants, Gwen Hill or Cheryl Sanford.

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As always, we welcome your comments and suggestions.  Please call us at 307-367-3700 with any comments or suggestions or to schedule an appointment.

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