About Porcelain Onlays
Porcelain onlays are a type of dental restoration that can be used to repair a damaged or decayed tooth. They are made of high-quality porcelain material that is custom-designed to fit the shape of the tooth and match the color of the surrounding teeth.
Benefits of Porcelain Onlays:
Natural Appearance: Porcelain onlays are designed to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, creating a seamless and natural-looking restoration.
Durability: Porcelain is a strong and durable material that can withstand the forces of chewing and biting, making it a long-lasting solution for repairing damaged teeth.
Conservative Treatment: Porcelain onlays require minimal removal of healthy tooth structure, making them a more conservative treatment option than traditional crowns.
The Process of Getting Porcelain Onlays:
Diagnosis and Treatment Planning: The first step in getting a porcelain onlay is a thorough examination and diagnosis by your dentist. If an onlay is determined to be the best treatment option, your dentist will create a treatment plan that outlines the steps involved.
Tooth Preparation: The damaged or decayed portion of the tooth is removed and the remaining healthy tooth structure is prepared to receive the onlay. An impression of the tooth is then taken to create a custom-fit onlay.
Temporary Onlay: A temporary onlay is placed on the tooth while the custom onlay is being fabricated in a dental laboratory with a specialist ceramist.
Placement of Porcelain Onlay: Once the custom onlay is ready, it is permanently bonded to the tooth using a special dental adhesive. The dentist will check the fit and appearance of the onlay to ensure it looks and functions like a natural tooth.
Porcelain onlays are a great option for restoring a damaged or decayed tooth. They are long lasting, natural looking, and require minimal removal of healthy tooth structure. If you think you may need a porcelain onlay, talk to your dentist to see if it's the right option for you. With proper care and maintenance, a porcelain onlay can last for many years, providing a functional and aesthetically pleasing restoration.
The difference between a porcelain inlay and onlay
Porcelain inlays and onlays are both types of dental restorations used to repair decayed or damaged teeth, but they serve slightly different purposes and cover different extents of the tooth. Porcelain inlays are designed to fit within the cusps (top projections) of a tooth, primarily used when the damage does not affect the entire biting surface. Onlays, on the other hand, are more extensive and extend over one or more of the cusps of the tooth. Both are made from porcelain, making them durable and aesthetically pleasing options that match the natural color of teeth.