Preparing the tooth for an onlay
When cavities are too large to be successfully addressed with dental filings, a dentist may suggest the use of an onlay. An onlay fits over a tooth to cover and protect the biting surfaces of a molar. Unlike a dental crown, which cover the entire exposed area of a tooth, the onlay fits into the prepared area and is much more conservative. Preparations of the tooth to place an onlay requires the dentist to start with proper local anesthetics for patient comfort. once the area is numb, the dentist will use appropriate tools to clean out the cavity down to natural, healthy tooth structure. A dental impression is then completed to obtain the shape of the prepared area. The impression is used alongside the CEREC device at Gallery 57 to create a restoration while patients wait. Once the onlay is ready, the dentist will bond it into the prepared area to complete the treatment.
What are the benefits of dental onlays?
There are several advantages to dental onlays that our dentists at Gallery 57 will point out to patients who qualify for them:
- Onlays can strengthen the natural tooth
- Onlays are natural-looking and match the tooth’s appearance
- Onlays are made of porcelain, a strong and durable material commonly used in cosmetic dentistry
- Onlays offer an effective bond to the tooth for a proper seal
- Onlays can be created in one appointment with CEREC technology
- Onlays are conservative, requiring the removal of a small portion of tooth enamel versus preparations for dental crowns
Schedule an appointment with Gallery 57 today!
If you are interested in finding out if dental onlays are right for you, we encourage you to book an appointment with Gallery 57 of New York, NY today. Call (212) 246-8700 to request a visit with one of our several quality dentists at the office, located at 24 West 57th Street, Suite #701.
