When your tooth starts to decay, the physical pain is only part of your discomfort. You may also feel embarrassed about showing your smile and worried about having to pay for excessive cosmetic dentistry services to cover up the damage. You can, however, prevent both by opting for a dental onlay. If you’ve never heard of this fixture, use the following guide to get acquainted with it.

What It Is

A dental onlay is a restorative solution used for teeth with cavities. The onlay is attached to the chewing side of the affected tooth—where there are many grooves that can harbor decay—and extends over the side. When a decayed tooth is too weak to withstand the drilling of a filling, your dentist may suggest an onlay to prevent the tooth from cracking. They are also used on patients who need crowns because they eliminate the need to remove a healthy piece of a tooth to make space for a crown.

How It Works

Before the onlay is installed, a dentist will prepare your tooth. They’ll numb the area before cleaning out the cavity and making a mold. They’ll use this molded impression of your tooth to create a permanent onlay, installing a temporary one in the meantime. Once the finished onlay is back from the lab, your dentist will ensure it fits properly before bonding it into place.

The purpose of dental onlays is to cover the sensitive nerves inside teeth, which may have been exposed after tooth decay. Onlays will make your bite stronger so you can chew foods without pain. If you’re worried about the appearance of your smile, know that onlays are made to match the color and sheen of surrounding teeth.

If you believe an onlay is the right restorative and cosmetic dentistry route for you, get in touch with Kemper Pond Dental of Cincinnati, OH. They’ll make your feel comfortable no matter the scope of your treatment plan. Whether you need a simple cleaning or an involved solution like braces or implants, call them at (513) 531-4069 to schedule your first appointment. You can also visit the website for more information on their cosmetic dentistry services.