Our teeth are a vital component of our face, and hence we must take good care of them. Onlays are dental restorations that help restore a tooth compromised by moderate decay or damage. Porcelain onlays are widely preferred because they resemble your natural tooth. 

At Red Rock Dental, our goal is to preserve as many healthy teeth as possible while giving you the most natural smile. We could provide you with the best option from among the wide variety of onlay compositions we offer. 

What Is a Dental Onlay?

A dental onlay is a restorative procedure carried out to repair a partially decayed or damaged tooth. It involves placing a piece of material, often porcelain or metal composite, over the surface of an injured tooth to restore its natural appearance, structure, and function. Onlays are mainly used for the molar teeth and can be described as a treatment that’s a cross between a dental filling and a crown. 

What Are the Reasons For Onlay Restorations?

Onlay restorations can be placed to address the following situations:

• Broken or fractured teeth.
• Cosmetic enhancement.
• Decayed teeth.
• Fractured fillings.
• Large fillings.

What Is the Procedure for Placing Onlays?

At Red Rock Dental, placing dental onlays typically requires two appointments. During the first appointment, our team will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area surrounding the tooth to make you comfortable. The decayed portions of the tooth are then gently removed. After this, the tooth is shaped appropriately and any rough edges are smoothed. 

An impression of the tooth is then taken. This impression is sent over to a dental lab where your custom onlay is fabricated; this process may take a few days. In the meantime, Dr. Alan McCaffrey will place a protective temporary onlay over the prepared tooth.

The second appointment will be set after our team has received your customized onlay. The tooth will be thoroughly cleaned and polished to make sure that it is healthy and ready for onlay placement. Finally, the permanent onlay restoration is attached to the tooth after checking its fit.

How Should You Care For Your Dental Onlay?

Caring for your dental onlay is crucial to its long-term success. These follow-up instructions will ensure a comfortable experience and prevent any complications:

• Avoid eating or chewing immediately after the procedure. You risk biting and damaging the inside of your mouth.
• Prevent the loosening of the onlay by staying away from crunchy, hard, or sticky foods for at least 24 hours following its placement. 
• Brush two times each day as it is essential to remove any food particles or bacteria from the restored site to avoid cavities and decay in the remaining portion of the tooth. 
• Mild discomfort or soreness is not unusual following any dental treatment. If you are feeling some discomfort, pain medication can be used. 

If you are interested in knowing more about onlays, visit us at Red Rock Dental or call us at (702) 243-8788 to schedule your appointment.