Ever had a damaged tooth, say from that accidental fall or something flying at your face? If so, you’ve probably had to face a major decision from your dentist: onlay or crown? It’s a choice that, while simple at first glance, can impact you in a couple of ways, from the longevity of your tooth to your overall comfort and even your bottom line. But are onlays better than crowns? The truth is: it depends!
What’s the Difference Between an Onlay and a Crown?
Let’s start off with a crown, which is a full-coverage restoration that completely encases your tooth. This type of restoration is often used if the tooth is badly damaged, significantly weakened, or has a large piece missing. Crowns can be made from a couple of different materials, including porcelain, ceramic, and even metal.
An onlay, on the other hand, takes a bit more of a conservative approach. Think of it as more the middle ground between a filling and a crown. Onlays cover the damaged or decayed part of the tooth while still preserving as much of the natural structure as possible. They are custom-crafted to fit your tooth and mouth perfectly so you get a restoration of both function and appearance.
Why Are Onlays Better than Crowns?
If you’re looking for a dental solution that is stronger, looks better, and focuses on the long-term health of your tooth, then an onlay is likely to be the smarter choice. Here’s why:
Onlays Preserve More of Your Natural Tooth
The simple truth is that the more of your natural tooth you can keep, the better off you are going to be. Unlike crowns, which require some hefty reshaping of your tooth, onlays only replace the damaged parts. This means that the rest of your healthy tooth remains intact. In turn, this reduces the risk of future complications like fractures or the need for root canals.
Superior Fit and Function
Onlays, compared to crowns, are custom-designed to fit your mouth and tooth in a way that makes them nearly indistinguishable from your actual tooth material. This lets them mimic the natural look and feel of your tooth, so you maintain your original bite. Crowns, on the other hand, need more reshaping of the underlying tooth, which can affect the feel of your bite.
Aesthetic Superiority
If you care about the way your teeth look in the long run, onlays are the way to go. High-quality porcelain onlays will blend pretty much seamlessly with your natural tooth color so that they appear nearly invisible. In contrast, crowns can sometimes age or darken, especially with older materials.
Strength Without the Bulk
A common myth we often see is that crowns are stronger than onlays. The truth? Well, onlays can be just as, if not even more, durable than crowns! Since they bond directly to your tooth structure, they provide greater strength without adding unnecessary bulk. What that means for you is less stress on the tooth and a lower chance of long-term fractures.
Lower Risk of Nerve Damage
Here’s something most people don’t even think about: crowns require a lot of drilling. That drilling can increase the risk of nerve irritation or even the need for root canal treatment. Meanwhile, onlays preserve more of your natural tooth, so there’s much less of a chance you’ll need a root canal later.
When Might I Need a Crown?
- To be fair, crowns do have their place, especially if:
- Your tooth is badly damaged
- Your tooth is cracked beyond repair
- You’ve already undergone root canal therapy
In these cases, crowns can provide full protection and reinforcement for teeth that can no longer support themselves. For the right patients, a dental crown can mean the only path back to a full, functional, and healthy smile.
However, if you are a patient who wants to preserve your natural teeth, keep up that stunning smile, and avoid unnecessary dental work, onlays are likely going to be the better choice. The right choice depends on your individual situation.
How Do I Choose Which Is Right for Me?
The decision between crowns or onlays is just one reason why it is so important to reach out and consult with a cosmetic dentist who specializes in restorative dentistry. A trusted cosmetic dentist, like any of the ones at The Smile Artists, can evaluate your teeth and provide a personalized recommendation based on your current situation and the future of your teeth.
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