If your posterior teeth (the ones in the back of your mouth) suffer from dental decay, cavities, or other trauma, one of the best options is a posterior onlay or inlay-also known as a “partial crown”.
Similar to a tooth filling for cavities or other damage or decay inside of a tooth, when you have teeth in the back of your mouth that require restoration, it may be easier and more effective to place a partial crown rather than a full crown. Inlays and onlays will restore the tooth to its natural state. The type you get depends on how much of the tooth needs to be restored.
Inlays are used when only the interior of the tooth is damaged and will fit within the grooves of the biting surface. Onlays are used when the interior of the tooth and one or more of the points of the tooth (also called “cuspids”) must be replaced.
If you have damage or decay in your posterior teeth, our dental surgeons may recommend an inlay or onlay. If that is the case, we will numb your mouth, clean out the damage or decay, and shape the area of the tooth that will be replaced. Once clean, the dentist will take an impression of your teeth that we can use to craft a customized restoration to fit precisely in your mouth.
The inlay or onlay is made of durable material, shaped precisely to fit both the tooth that is damaged and to fit within your specific bite structure. Once in place, it is bonded to your tooth as a strong, permanent solution to protect against further damage to your teeth.
Inlays and onlays are a great way to provide added protection to your posterior teeth, preventing decay or damage from spreading. These partial crowns are also crafted of a durable material that looks virtually identical to your natural teeth, fitting in as a seamless extension of your real teeth. Finally, inlays and onlays are gentle on opposing teeth, providing comfortable biting and chewing.
Inlays and onlays are excellent solutions for restoring damaged teeth, but which is better depends on the extent of the damage. Inlays fit within the tooth grooves and are suitable for small to moderate decay. Onlays, on the other hand, cover one or more cusps, making them better suited for more extensive damage without requiring a full crown. Your dentist will recommend the most suitable option based on your tooth’s condition and long-term oral health goals.
Onlays are durable and can last 10 to 30 years with proper care. The lifetime of an onlay depends on several factors. These can include the material used, your daily oral hygiene practices, and whether you visit your dentist for regular dental checkups. Avoiding habits like grinding teeth or chewing hard foods can extend their lifespan. Routine care, such as brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings, helps maintain the integrity of the onlay and the surrounding tooth structure
Onlays are generally more affordable than crowns but more expensive than simple fillings. The cost varies based on the material used and the complexity of the procedure. Since onlays preserve more of the tooth’s natural structure than crowns, they can be a cost-effective option in the long run. When you can retain more of your natural tooth, the chance of you requiring more extensive future treatments is lessened. Consult your dentist for a detailed cost comparison and to see if an onlay suits your dental needs.
Getting a dental onlay is typically not painful. Dentists use local anesthetic so that the area can be numbed before you receive treatment. This ensures your experience is comfortable. After the anesthesia wears off, you may experience mild sensitivity or discomfort for a few days. This can typically be managed with an over-the-counter pain reliever. If you have persistent pain or sensitivity beyond a week, contact your dentist for a follow-up to check for any complications.
An onlay requires enough healthy tooth structure to support the restoration. It is usually advised when the damage is too great for a filling but not severe enough to necessitate a full crown. If more than half of the tooth structure remains intact, an onlay can provide a strong and durable solution. Your dentist will evaluate the extent of decay or damage to determine whether an onlay is a viable option for your tooth.
Although onlays are securely bonded to the tooth, they can occasionally fall off due to improper bonding, trauma, or tooth decay beneath the restoration. Proper oral hygiene and avoiding habits like grinding your teeth or biting hard objects can help maintain their stability. If an onlay becomes loose or falls off, contact your dentist immediately for reattachment or replacement. Regular dental visits are essential to monitor the condition of your onlay.
Schedule an appointment today to meet with our experienced dental surgeons at three convenient offices throughout the Greater Toronto Areas of Scarborough, Pickering, and North York, and find out whether posterior inlays or onlays are a solution for your dental needs.
Dr. Amir Awadalla
Dr. Mark Awadalla
Dr. Ashraf Awadalla
