Dental Onlays Procedure | Dr. Shannon Dental Clinic

Onlays are used to treat decay that extends to one or more of the cusps. Onlays are created from tooth-colored material, which makes them virtually undetectable to the naked eye. Onlays also help to conserve more tooth structure because their use requires minimal removal a tooth’s surface. Perhaps their most important benefit, however, is that, in saving damaged teeth, onlays help patients avoid the eventual need for more extensive treatment with dental crowns, dental bridges, or dental implants.

First Appointmemnt

• We begin the procedure by numbing the area first with a topical cream followed by a local anesthetic.
• The decay or damage is removed using a drill, preparing the tooth for its new surface.
• An impression is made of the prepared tooth so the onlay material can be cast in a form that will fit the tooth exactly.
• A temporary restoration is placed on the tooth to protect it until the laboratory makes the new structure and it can be bonded to the tooth. This can take about ten days.

Second Appointment (After 10 Days)

• The temporary restoration is removed and the surface is cleaned to prepare for the new structure.
• Try the new restoration to ensure that there is a correct fit.
• If the fit is good, using special cement or bonding, the onlay is permanently attached to the tooth. Some minor adjustment may need to be made to the restoration if there are interferences.
• To finish the procedure, we polish the cemented or bonded onlay and tooth to restore lustre.