All about cosmetic tooth restorations, such as dental onlays
The dedicated team at Dental Associates of Hoboken works routinely with men and women seeking restoration of their smiles. This is especially true when there have been issues with the smile, such as disease, damage, and decay. Drs. Bari Posner, Anum Ali, and Giancarlo Brezillion are here to help with a selection of restorative procedures–including dental onlays. Dental onlays are one of several ways in which our patients can repair issues within the smile in a more cosmetic manner. Let’s take a closer look at dental onlays and how they work for our patients.
What is a dental onlay?
A dental onlay is a customized dental restoration used to repair damaged or decayed teeth. It is similar to a dental filling but typically covers a larger portion of the tooth and can be made from various materials such as porcelain, gold, or composite resin. Dental onlays are often recommended for teeth that have moderate damage or decay and need more support than a traditional filling can provide.
How does it work?
The process of getting a dental onlay usually requires two appointments. During the first appointment, our dentists will remove any damaged or decayed portions of the natural tooth and take an impression to create a customized dental onlay. This ensures the onlay fits perfectly over the affected area without affecting your bite. Proper fit ensures proper function, so this part needs to be done right for the best results. The final restoration is made at a dental laboratory, and patients return to have their permanent onlay bonded into place to finish the restoration of the smile.
What are the advantages of using a dental onlay versus placing a traditional dental crown?
There are several benefits to requesting the placement of dental onlays instead of conventional crown restoration. These include:
- Conservative. Since an onlay only covers the damaged portion of the tooth rather than the entire natural tooth, it preserves much more of the patient’s tooth structure. This helps to maintain the strength and integrity of the tooth in the long run.
- Cosmetic appearance. Onlays are often used for more cosmetic purposes and can blend seamlessly with your natural teeth for a more aesthetically pleasing result.
- Longevity. The restoration can be durable and long-lasting depending on the material used for the onlay. Porcelain and gold onlays are known for their strength and resistance to wear and tear. They can also be more resistant to staining and discoloration.
- Cost. Dental onlays can be more affordable in the long run because they preserve more of the natural tooth, reducing the need for future repairs or replacements.
Are you ready to learn more about cosmetic tooth restorations like dental onlays?
Our team at Dental Associates of Hoboken believes in offering patients the solutions they need to achieve the smiles they’ve always wanted. If you have breakage or decay and feel like a conservative dental onlay would be the best way to restore the smile, call Drs. Bari Posner, Anum Ali, and Giancarlo Brezillion to request an appointment at the office, located at 233 Washington Street in Hoboken, New Jersey. The practice can be reached by dialing (201) 795-2111 to talk to our friendly front office team about your next visit.
