Also known as a partial crown, an onlay is a hardened material tailored specifically to cover the tooth. The process begins with a dentist taking an impression of your teeth, which is then forwarded to a dental laboratory. Using this impression, a skilled technician crafts the onlay. Upon completion, the onlay is returned to the dentist to be fitted onto your tooth.
Onlay Materials
Traditionally, onlays were made from gold, similar to traditional crowns. However, advancements have led to the introduction of porcelain or ceramic onlays, which offer superior bonding to natural teeth. These materials can be matched to the color of the other teeth. This change in the type of materials used has increased compatibility and, hence, the durability of onlays. The downside of traditional materials such as gold was that they could negatively react with natural elements and even cause allergic issues.
The Lifespan of Onlays
Dental onlays lasts between 20 and 30 years, which could simply mean a lifetime for most people. One of the advantages of dental onlays is their ability to withstand a variety of foods and beverages. Due to the robustness of the material, they provide an improved biting surface. Nonetheless, dentists advise patients to avoid excessively sticky foods. With consistent oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing at least twice daily and using specialized adhesives for bonding, onlays remain firmly in place.
How to Make Onlays Last
Upon receiving a dental onlay, the dentist furnishes the patient with comprehensive instructions to ensure longevity. Adherence to these guidelines can extend the lifespan of a dental onlay, depending on factors such as material quality, bonding efficacy, and your overall dental care routine.
The decision to use onlays for strengthening your teeth and lengthening their lifespan can be arrived at after a dental examination. If you think you may need onlays, feel free to talk to us. Please write to us online or call to set up an appointment with our prosthodontist for a consultation.
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Dental Implant Center at Walnut Creek: Blog Dr. Keith and Dr. Petrini have been proudly serving the Grater Bay Area community for many years and pride themselves on performing excellent services in general dentistry and dental implants. Dental Implant Center at Walnut Creek, 1111 Civic Drive, Suite 320 Walnut Creek, CA 94596, (925) 266-3550, implantcenterwc.com, 10/7/2024, Page Phrases: dental implants Walnut Creek CA,