Mastication is an important function of your teeth that helps improve your overall health and well-being. Teeth also play a key role in facial aesthetics. However, extensive tooth decay involving the cusps can compromise your oral form, function, and aesthetics. Fortunately, these challenges can be overcome through porcelain onlays. What are porcelain onlays? Read on to learn more about them.

Porcelain onlays provided by the dentist in Kensington, CA, are durable and long-lasting, thereby rejuvenating your oral health. 

What are porcelain onlays?

A dental onlay is a larger restoration than an inlay but smaller than a dental crown. It fits within the teeth grooves, wrapping the cusps and most of the tooth surface. A porcelain onlay is a ceramic restoration that helps repair a tooth that has more extensive damage affecting the cusp or potentially the biting surface. Porcelain onlays are a popular treatment option because they mimic the appearance of your natural teeth. 

Why are porcelain onlays used?

Dentists often recommend porcelain onlays for the following reasons: 

• Teeth with broken cusps
• Teeth with extensive decay that cannot be restored with regular dental fillings
• Teeth with cracks and fractures 
• Teeth with broken or damaged restorations
• Teeth with large, unaesthetic fillings
• Teeth with cosmetic imperfections 

How is your tooth restored with porcelain onlays? 

Your dentist will restore your tooth with a porcelain onlay by 

• Removing any old fillings and dental caries from the affected tooth
• Preparing the tooth by cutting a minimal amount of structure.
• Recording multiple oral impressions in the form of digital scans and sending them to the laboratory.
• Choosing the right shade to fabricate the onlay to match your natural teeth. 
• Provide a temporary filling to protect the tooth until you receive the permanent restoration. 
• After about 1 to 2 weeks, replace the temporary onlay with a permanent one. 
• Making the necessary adjustments to ensure proper fit and aesthetics.
• Checking the high points to ensure your bite is comfortable.
• Fixing the porcelain onlay using an appropriate dental cement.  

What are the post-procedure instructions to be followed?

It is essential to care for the porcelain onlays to increase their longevity, strength, and durability. This is possible through the following instructions:

• Brush your teeth twice using fluoridated toothpaste, and floss regularly
• Avoid sticky or chewy foods to prevent excess plaque accumulation
• Get dental exams and cleaning once every 6months 
• Avoid grinding or clenching your teeth

Porcelain onlays are an excellent alternative to dental crowns since they preserve most of your natural tooth structure. These permanent restorations offer a cascade of benefits that go a long way in enhancing your oral health.