Crowns Versus Onlays – Which One is Better?

Dental restorations may restore a tooth’s natural appearance by repairing tooth decay (caries), fissures, and other damage.

There is no restoration option available. Crowns and onlays fulfill comparable functions, for instance. However, whereas a dental crown covers the entire surface of a tooth, an onlay (or partial crown) only covers a portion of a tooth.

Here is what you must understand about crowns and onlays, which includes how they differ, the advantages and disadvantages of each, as well as how to work with your dentist to determine which one is best for you. Vista family and cosmetic dentistry can help you with whichever option you choose.

How are crowns and onlays comparable?

Minor cavities and injuries can be remedied with dental fillings. However, some cavities and injuries are too severe for fillings. To restore the tooth in this situation, a crown or onlay may be necessary.

Onlays are used to restore damage to the cusp, which is the elevated portion of the tooth’s surface. Only the injured portion of the tooth is covered by these porcelain or gold restorations.

You may need a dental crown that covers the tooth completely if you have a severely damaged or decayed tooth. Crowns restore a tooth that has been significantly worn or broken. Covering the entire tooth can prevent further harm and, in some cases, save the tooth. Porcelain or gold is also used to craft dental crowns.

Crown vs. onlay: advantages and disadvantages

The extent of the injury and the state of your teeth determine whether you receive a dental crown or an onlay.

Before deciding which of the two restorative treatments to pursue, it is essential to comprehend their respective advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages:

Crowns for Teeth

• Similar to onlay in terms of its durability.
• Restores large or worn-down fillings.
• Protects a tooth that is damaged or decayed from further injury.
• Restores a tooth to its original aspect.
• Recontours a tooth.
• Maintains a tooth’s structural integrity after a root canal.

Dental Onlay

• Similar to a crown in terms of durability.
• Restores and reshapes tooth injury
• Reduces the possibility of subsequent rot.
• Restores teeth to their natural state.
• A more conservative treatment preserves a greater percentage of your tooth structure and requires less extensive preparation.
• Less costly than dental crowns.

Disadvantages:

Crowns for Teeth

• More intensive treatment than dental onlays.
• Crowns can fracture or crack, necessitating additional restoration.
• The costlier alternative to a dental onlay.
• After a procedure, a patient may be sensitive to heat or cold.
• The material may induce an allergic reaction.
• Multiple appointments are necessary.

Dental Onlays

• A dollar may be less expensive than or comparable to a pound.
• Can chip or fracture, necessitating further maintenance.
• After a procedure, a patient may be sensitive to heat or cold.
• The material may induce an allergic reaction.
• Multiple appointments are necessary.
• Can be more challenging to accomplish.