How Dental Onlays Can Keep Your Teeth Strong and Healthy in Sherman Oaks
When faced with a damaged or decayed tooth, it is imperative to opt for a restoration that looks natural. But also provides exceptional comfort and lasting durability. A dental onlay is a perfect solution that meets these requirements. Unlike conventional fillings, an onlay covers a larger surface area of the tooth, significantly enhancing its strength while preserving as much of the natural structure as possible. If you are exploring options for a dental onlay in Sherman Oaks, it underscores your dedication to achieving a healthy and appealing smile. At our dental office, we believe tooth restoration should match your natural teeth. No one should feel embarrassed about a dark, metal spot in their smile. What are Dental Onlays? Dental onlays are effective restorations that repair damaged or decayed teeth. They are custom-made pieces that fit over the damaged part of your tooth. It covers one or more of the cusps while leaving the healthy portions intact. Think of an onlay as a bridge between a filling and a crown. Unlike a simple filling, it reinforces the tooth, giving it extra strength. Unlike a full crown, it preserves more of your natural tooth structure. Onlays are usually made from strong materials like porcelain or composite resin, which blend in with your natural teeth and provide long-lasting durability. Procedure to Place Onlays 1. Examine the Tooth Our team will carefully examines your tooth for cracks or decay. In case an onlay is necessary, the tooth is cleaned and shaped to fit the new piece. 2. Make a MoldNext, our team will conduct a precise scan of your tooth. This will enable the lab to design an onlay that fits your tooth perfectly. 3. Fit the Onlay A temporary onlay may be used until the permanent one is ready. The permanent onlay is then cemented in place, checked for proper bite, and polished. Patients usually find this easier than a crown, with less chair time and less tooth sensitivity afterward. Benefits Beyond Appearance Choosing a dental onlay is not just about appearance. The materials are strong enough for regular chewing, so you can eat what you like. Unlike older metal fillings, these tooth-colored onlays do not expand or contract as much with temperature changes. This can help protect your tooth from cracks. Another plus? Onlays can help stop decay from spreading further by sealing off small cracks or grooves where bacteria might sneak in. That can mean fewer repeat dental visits and less drilling down the road. Patients looking for a dental onlay in Sherman Oaks often ask whether they’re as strong as a crown. For the right cases, yes, they can last many years if you maintain good brushing, flossing, and routine cleanings. Preserving Your Natural Smile The whole point of modern dentistry is to help you keep your natural teeth healthy as long as possible. Dental onlays fit perfectly into that mission. Instead of grinding down the entire tooth, the dentist saves as much healthy structure as they can. That’s healthier for the nerve of the tooth and can even help your smile feel more natural afterward. People often tell us they like how an onlay “feels” compared to a full crown; there’s less of a bulky sensation and fewer worries about food getting caught around the edges. Long-Term Care for Your Onlay Once you have a dental onlay in place, you care for it much like your other teeth. Because the onlay is custom-matched to your tooth shade, it should continue to blend beautifully for many years. If you ever notice a chip or feel a change in your bite, see your dentist as soon as possible. Experience Modern Dental Repair If you have a large filling that keeps breaking or if a part of your tooth has broken off, an onlay could be a good choice. It looks natural, is strong, and is a less invasive option than a full crown. Our Sherman Oaks practice takes pride in designing dental repairs that look great and feel even better. You shouldn’t have to trade function for beauty, and with modern onlay technology. Conclusion If you are interested in a dental onlay in Sherman Oaks, our team can help you explore your options. Whether you’ve got a chipped tooth, a worn-out filling, or an old metal patch you’d like to replace. Give us a call today to schedule an exam. You deserve a strong, beautiful smile and a caring team ready to make it happen. With natural-looking dental onlays, you can keep your smile bright and healthy for years to come.
