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Porcelain Onlays
A porcelain onlay is similar to a dental crown in that it is designed to restore a tooth that is broken down so much that a regular filling is not enough to fix it. An onlay is sometimes also referred to as a partial crown. Unlike crowns, a porcelain onlay covers only parts of the tooth that are weak and it will not go down to the gum line, making an onlay a much more conservative solution. 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. Porcelain onlays are very durable and usually last a very long time.
Reasons for porcelain onlay restorations:
- Broken teeth
- Fractured teeth
- Cosmetic reasons
- Decayed teeth
- Fractured fillings
- Large fillings
What to expect…
A porcelain onlay is made by a professional dental laboratory and is permanently cemented into the tooth by your dentist. This procedure is usually carried out over two appointments. On your first visit, a mold of your tooth will be created and you will be given a temporary filling. The dentist will then send the mold off to the dental lab, which will create an onlay specifically for you. On your second visit, your custom made porcelain onlay will be permanently adhered to your tooth. A few adjustments may be necessary to ensure secure the onlay. You will receive after care instructions and regular office visits are encouraged.