Should I get a Dental Onlay or a Crown? Which one is better?

Dental restorations can help restore the natural appearance of your tooth, but there isn’t only one single option for restoration.

Dental crowns and onlays serve similar purposes – to repair decay (cavities), cracks, or other damage – but the process remains different. Understanding the difference between dental onlays and crowns can help you make a better decision for your long-term dental health.

A dental crown covers the surface of the tooth, while an onlay, or partial crown, covers only part of the tooth.

So which one would work better for you? Here’s everything you need to know about onlays vs crowns, including how they differ, the benefits and downsides, and how to work with a dentist to understand your options.

Understanding Onlays and Crowns

What is Onlay?

A dental onlay is often called a partial crown because it covers a portion of your tooth instead of encasing it entirely. This type of restoration is used, for the most part, when your tooth has more damage or decay than a regular filling might cover – but not enough to require a full crown. The dental onlay will help restore the tooth’s shape, function, and strength, all while keeping the core structure of the tooth as healthy as possible.

What is Crown?

Unlike a dental onlay, a crown is a full-coverage restoration that will encase your damaged tooth. Your dentist will suggest a crown when your tooth has suffered significant structural damage or decay – or after your root canal treatment. Much like dental onlays, crowns will help restore your tooth’s appearance, function, and durability of the tooth while preventing further damage.

When to Consider an Onlay

Appropriate Scenarios for Onlays

Your dentist might suggest a dental onlay in the following scenarios:

• The damage or decay is moderate and does not extend to the entire tooth.
• You want to preserve more of your natural tooth structure.
• You need a durable yet minimally invasive restoration.

Advantages of Onlays

One of the biggest advantages to a dental onlay vs a crown is that onlays can often be a more affordable option than crowns, depending on the material used and the extent of the damage. In addition, onlays require less removal of the healthy tooth structure compared to dental crowns.

Potential Drawbacks

When comparing onlay or crown, it’s important to consider that your dental onlay may not last as long as a crown if your tooth has severe damage. Onlays are strong, but if the damage is too extensive, the onlay may not provide enough coverage or support.

When to Consider a Crown

Appropriate Scenarios for Crowns

Your dentist might suggest a crown in the following scenarios:

• The tooth has undergone significant decay or structural damage.
• You have undergone a root canal and need full protection coverage.
• The tooth is cracked and requires reinforcement to prevent further breakage.

It may seem intimidating to think about a dental crown, but crowns are the most common restorative procedure, with approximately 2.3 million implant-supported crowns made annually.

Advantages of Crowns

One of the biggest advantages to dental crowds vs onlays is the stronger support. Crowns provide full coverage, which means maximum protection and durability. With the proper care, your crown can last for decades – which means fewer replacements and less worry.

Potential Drawbacks

When talking about onlay or crown, the dental crown has one clear drawback: it’s a more invasive procedure and requires more of the natural tooth to be removed for the crown to fit properly. In addition, crowns may cost more, depending on the material and complexity. Studies show crowns account for about 31% of all dental care expenses.

Making the Right Decision

Factors to Consider

When discussing dental onlay vs crown, consider the following factors before making a decision:

• Your Dental Health Goals: If preserving as much of your natural tooth as possible is important to you, an onlay might be the better option.
• Durability Needs: Crowns are often the best choice for extensive damage or after root canal treatment.
• Cost Considerations: Onlays can sometimes be a more budget-friendly option, but the best choice depends on the specific case.
• Aesthetic Perspective: Both options can be made to match your natural teeth, but some materials may be better suited for a seamless look.

The best way to determine whether you need an onlay or a crown is to consult with a professional. A dentist will assess the extent of the damage, your overall dental health, and your personal preferences before recommending the most suitable treatment.

Call to Action

A dental onlay or crown can be a big decision that impacts your long-term dental health. If you’re unsure whether you need an onlay or a crown, schedule an appointment with Dr. Jenny Citrin at Thrive Dental Co. Our expert team is here to guide you through the process and provide the highest quality dental care to restore your smile. Book your consultation today and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile!

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