Onlays

If one of your teeth has seen better days but isn’t quite bad enough for a crown, an onlay could be the perfect fix. At Guiding Light Dental, we offer custom onlays that restore your tooth’s strength and appearance, giving you a durable and natural-looking result.

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What Is a Dental Onlay?

A dental onlay is a custom-made restoration that covers the chewing surface of a damaged tooth. It is designed to repair teeth with moderate decay or damage, providing strength and protection while preserving as much of your natural tooth as possible.

Quality onlays are made from sturdy materials like composite resin, which can be shaded to match your natural teeth.

How Does an Onlay Compare to Other Restorations?

Inlays fit inside the grooves of the tooth, repairing small to moderate cavities. ‍
Onlays cover more surface area, extending over the tooth's cusps. ‍
Crowns cover the entire tooth and are used for more severe damage or decay.

Onlays offer a great middle-ground option, combining the durability of crowns with the less invasive nature of fillings.

When Is an Onlay Recommended?

An onlay is a great option when a cavity is too big for a filling but not quite large enough for a crown. It’s also perfect for those who want to keep as much of their natural tooth as possible while still getting a durable, long-lasting fix.

If you’ve had a large filling that’s cracked or caused further damage, an onlay can bring your tooth back to its original strength.

How Long Does the Procedure Take?

Getting an onlay usually requires two appointments. In the first visit, we’ll clean out any decay and take impressions to create a custom onlay just for you. While we craft your onlay, we’ll place a temporary restoration to keep your tooth protected.

When you return for your second visit, we’ll place the onlay, making sure it fits perfectly and blends with your natural teeth.

Are Onlays Permanent?

Onlays can last 10 to 15 years or more with the right care. While they’re not permanent, they do offer long-lasting protection. Keeping up with good oral hygiene and regular dental visits will help your onlay last as long as possible.

Ready to Restore Your Tooth with an Onlay?

Contact Guiding Light Dental today to schedule an appointment and find out how custom onlays can help restore your tooth’s strength and natural look!