ONLAYS

DENTAL ONLAYS

Damaged teeth can disrupt your daily life, causing discomfort and diminishing your confidence. If you’re searching for an effective and aesthetic solution, then dental onlays could be the answer. Designed to repair damaged or decayed teeth while preserving their natural structure, onlays are a versatile and long-lasting dental restoration option.
cosmetic-inner

WHAT ARE COSMETIC ONLAYS?

Dental onlays are custom-made restorations designed to repair large cavities or damaged areas of a tooth. Unlike crowns, which cover the entire tooth, onlays target specific areas, such as the cusps and biting surfaces, preserving as much of the natural tooth structure as possible.

Made from durable materials like porcelain, composite resin, or gold, onlays blend seamlessly with your teeth, providing strength and a natural appearance. They’re ideal for addressing issues that are too severe for traditional fillings but don’t require a full crown.

COMMON RISK FACTORS

Several factors can lead to the need for onlay procedures, including:

  • Tooth Decay: Neglected cavities that weaken the enamel
  • Physical Trauma: Chips, cracks, or fractures caused by accidents or chewing hard objectss
  • Bruxism: Chronic teeth grinding that wears down the tooth structure

Many patients are surprised at the large amount of surface area that we examine during an oral exam. At every hygiene visit, we examine all the tissues of your mouth, including gums, cheeks, lips, tongue, and jaw.

It is just as important to have regular soft tissue screenings as it is to have a professional dental cleaning.
Oral cancer can afflict anyone, although tobacco users put themselves at a significantly higher risk than non-users. Chewing tobacco has up to 3000 different chemicals, including the same compounds used in pesticides and embalming fluid.

Cellular changes below the surface aren’t always detectable until they’ve advanced to a critical stage.Early detection and treatment of oral cancer can significantly increase your chances of a quick and complete recovery. The American Cancer Society reports that about 7,000 deaths result from oral cancer out of 30,000 cases diagnosed annually.

Oral cancer often develops silently, presenting no apparent symptoms in its early stages. Our dentists at North Texas Family and Cosmetic Dentistry utilize oral cancer awareness tactics so that even regular screenings allow abnormalities to be detected early, improving treatment outcomes and significantly reducing risks.

SYMPTOMS INDICATING THE NEED FOR ONLAYS

You might benefit from cosmetic onlays if you experience:
Persistent tooth pain or sensitivity
Noticeable cracks or chips
Large fillings that no longer protect your teeth
Uneven biting surfaces affecting your dental alignment

ONLAY PROCEDURE

The onlay restoration procedure involves two main appointments:

    1. Preparation:
      • Your dentist removes decay and prepares the tooth.
      • An impression is taken to ensure a perfect fit.
      • A temporary onlay protects the tooth until the permanent restoration is ready.
    2. Placement:
      • The custom-made onlay is bonded to the tooth using dental cement.
      • Polishing ensures a smooth finish that looks and feels natural.

 

This minimally invasive approach preserves your tooth’s health and structure while restoring its function and appearance.

WHY CHOOSE NORTH TEXAS FAMILY AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY?

At North Texas Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we take pride in delivering affordable onlays without compromising quality. Here’s why we stand out:

Advanced Technology: We use state-of-the-art tools to ensure precision and comfort during your onlay procedure.
Experienced Team: Our dentists are skilled in porcelain onlays and other modern restorations.
Personalized Care: We focus on understanding your unique dental needs and offering tailored solutions.
Commitment to Aesthetics: Our cosmetic onlays enhance your smile while maintaining durability.

Don’t let tooth damage hold you back. Experience the benefits of onlay restoration and regain your confidence.

‘‘As always I am so pleased with the staff and services Dr. Burnett has provided my family. Ms. Minter did an exceptional job examining and cleaning my 32 tightly spaced teeth. I actually look forward to my return visits.’’
Sparky Lane

LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUR DENTAL HEALTH​

Dental onlays are designed to be a durable and long-lasting solution for restoring damaged teeth. With proper care, including good oral hygiene practices and regular dental checkups, onlays can last between 10 to 15 years or even longer. The longevity also depends on factors such as the material used (porcelain, composite, or gold), the location of the onlay in the mouth, and the patient’s eating habits. Avoiding excessive chewing on hard objects like ice or pens can further extend their lifespan.

One of the biggest advantages of an onlay procedure is its conservative nature. Unlike dental crowns, which require more extensive tooth preparation, onlays involve minimal removal of healthy tooth structure. Only the decayed or damaged portions of the tooth are eliminated, leaving the surrounding healthy enamel intact. This ensures the preservation of as much of your natural tooth as possible while providing a strong and functional restoration.

Onlays are often considered a middle ground between fillings and crowns. They are ideal for situations where a filling is insufficient due to the size of the cavity or damage, but a full crown may not be necessary. Onlays preserve more of the natural tooth structure compared to crowns and are more durable and precise than large fillings. Your dentist will evaluate your specific dental condition and recommend the most suitable option based on your needs.

Yes, patients typically have the option to choose the material for their dental onlay. Common materials include porcelain, composite resin, and gold.
  • Porcelain onlays are popular for their ability to blend seamlessly with the natural color of your teeth, making them a great cosmetic option.
  • Gold onlays are incredibly durable and provide strong bite support, but they are less common due to their metallic appearance.
  • Composite resin onlays offer a balance between aesthetics and affordability, making them a versatile choice for many patients.

The onlay procedure is typically not painful, as the dentist will numb the area using a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort throughout the process. Most patients report little to no discomfort during the treatment. After the procedure, you may experience minor sensitivity in the treated tooth, which usually subsides within a few days. If you have dental anxiety, your dentist may also offer additional options, such as sedation, to make the experience more comfortable.

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A healthy smile is a beautiful smile.