All About Getting a Dental Onlay
Considering getting a dental onlay? This dental restoration is used to improve the health of teeth that are in bad shape due to an injury, cavity or simple wear and tear. It often gets overlooked among dental restorations because they are not commonly recommended by dentists. A dental onlays nature is similar to that of a dental crown; however, it does not cap an entire tooth. Keep reading to learn more about getting a dental onlay.
Guide to getting a dental onlay
Below is a quick overview of getting a dental onlay, including what is involved and what to expect. This information can be reviewed prior to the procedure so that patients are not presented with any surprises.
What is a dental onlay?
A dental onlay is an indirect restoration used to rebuild, renew and restore teeth that are in bad shape. Onlays cover one or more cusps on molar teeth, which are used primarily for chewing and grinding food. Outlined below are a few reasons why a dental onlay may be needed.
- To cover a crack or chip in a cusp
- Cavity treatment
- Stain covering
- Strengthening measure for teeth weakened by jaw clenching or teeth grinding
The process and procedure
A dental onlay procedure is relatively simple; however, it does involve two separate appointments. Because dental onlays are indirect restorations, the help of a dental lab is required during the process. The first appointment involves an impression taking of the tooth needing the onlay. The impressions are then sent to the lab where they will be used to custom-make a reliable dental onlay.
After a few days of waiting, the patient can return to the dentist's office where the dental onlay will be placed using composite bonding. The dentist will thoroughly clean the tooth and remove any damaged parts. Then, a resin material will be applied to the cusps so that the onlay stays in place. Once placed, the dentist will ensure that the fit is secure and correct.
Life after dental onlay placement
After a dental onlay has been placed, most individuals are able to get back to normal. Full functionality is typically restored, thus making it easier for eating, smiling and speaking to take place. While there is not a lot of special aftercare tips, general dentists do recommend the following:
- Avoid eating hard, tough or sticky foods that could dislodge or damage the dental onlay
- Brush twice a day or after every meal
- Use mouthwash or salt water a few times a week
- Floss daily
- Visit the dentist on a regular basis
Find out more from a general dentist
Getting a dental onlay is a relatively easy process; however, individuals that still have questions should reach out directly to a general dentist to find out more. Concerns can be addressed and any questions can be answered. Give us a call or stop by our office today to get scheduled for an appointment or to learn more.
Are you considering a dental onlay in the Murphy area? Get more information at https://www.valleyriverdental.com.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Dental Onlay in Murphy, NC.
Related Posts
The TMJ, or temporomandibular joint, connects the lower jaw to the skull. If you are experiencing pain in your jaw, you may be suffering from what is known as TMJ disorder. The disorder may also cause muscle spasms, clicking sounds, or jaw locking. These symptoms can make regular activities like eating and talking painful and…
Visiting your general dentist for a specific treatment can improve your oral health. The services that you need will depend on your assessment. Knowing the common services available will enable you to make informed decisions about the ones you will get. Here are the common services on offer at your general dentist’s clinic.A general dentist…
While toothaches can make eating or even your daily routine unpleasant, a general dentist has various solutions to ease this pain. If the painful tooth is decayed, they can restore it to stop the ache. They can also help ease pain in otherwise healthy teeth through medicine and improved oral hygiene practices. Thus, whether the…
As part of their mission to keep mouths healthy, a general dentist offers a variety of single-tooth replacement options. Even just missing one tooth can impact your oral health and the appearance of your smile. Single-tooth replacements may be the efficient solution to restore the appearance and functionality of your smile.Losing a single tooth can…