Onlays Are A Strong, Conservative Choice To Restore Damaged Teeth

At Excellence in Dentistry in Fort Lauderdale, Nancy Rotroff,DDS, MAGD and Gerard Wasselle, DMD are committed to providing our patients with the best possible dental care, using the latest advancements and techniques. Always conservative in their approach to restorative dentistry, our dentists know dental onlays are a fantastic option for repairing damaged teeth.

What is an Onlay?

An onlay, sometimes referred to as a partial crown, is a custom-made, super strong filling. Your dentist in Fort Lauderdale uses an onlay when a cavity or crack is too large for a traditional filling but enough tooth structure remains that a full crown is not required. Onlays are bonded to the remaining healthy tooth structure, restoring strength, function, and aesthetics.

How Do Onlays Work?

The onlay process typically involves two appointments:

1. Preparation: After numbing the area, your dentist on Commercial Blvd. removes any decay and damaged tooth structure. Impressions are then taken to create a precise mold of your tooth.
2. Placement: During your second visit, your custom-crafted onlay, made from high-quality materials in our trusted dental lab, will be securely bonded to your tooth.

Do I Need An Onlay Or A Crown?

Ultimately, the best course of treatment will depend on the specific situation of your tooth. Dr. Rotroff or Dr. Wasselle at Excellence in Dentistry can examine your teeth and recommend the most suitable option, whether an onlay, crown, or another restorative procedure.

• Onlays. Less is more. An onlay offers a more conservative approach compared to a crown. Here's when an onlay might be the better option for your tooth:

  • Limited Damage: If the damage to your tooth is moderate, affecting less than half of the biting surface and without deep cracks, your dentist may use an onlay to effectively restore its function and strength.

  • Less Invasive Procedure: Placing an onlay is generally less invasive than a crown, requiring minimal removal of healthy tooth structure.

  • Preserving Tooth Structure: Since onlays only cover the damaged portion, they allow you to retain more of your natural tooth structure compared to a crown which requires removing more healthy tooth.
  • Strong and durable: Modern onlay materials are incredibly strong and can last for many years with proper care.
  • More natural appearance: Onlays can be precisely matched to the color of your surrounding teeth for a seamless look.

• Crowns. Crowns cover your entire tooth structure and are used to restore function and structure as well as restore the appearance of your tooth.

• • Extensive Damage: If the damage to your tooth is significant, affecting more than half of the biting surface or involving cracks that run deep into the tooth, a crown may be necessary for added strength and protection.
  • Fractured Cusp: If a large portion of the cusp (the pointed chewing surface) of your tooth is broken off, an onlay might not be enough to restore its full function and stability. A crown would completely encase the remaining tooth structure for better support.
  • Root Canal Needed: If your tooth requires a root canal due to severe decay or infection, a crown is often placed afterward to reinforce the tooth and prevent future fractures.
  • Prior Fillings: If your tooth has extensive existing fillings that compromise its structural integrity, a crown might be recommended to provide additional support and prevent further breakage.
  • Cosmetic Concerns: In some cases, if the damage to your tooth is primarily cosmetic and does not affect its strength significantly, you might have the choice between an onlay or a crown. Crowns can offer a more uniform, perfect appearance compared to onlays.

Excellence in Dentistry: Your Partner in Top-Quality Onlays

At Excellence in Dentistry, we use only the finest materials and partner with the most skilled dental labs to create your onlays. This ensures exceptional longevity, aesthetics, and functionality.

Looking for a Top Dentist in Fort Lauderdale or the Best Dentist for Seniors Near You?

Whether you're seeking cosmetic dentistry, a general dentist near you, or a dentist specializing in onlays or other restorative procedures, Dr. Rotroff and Dr. Wasselle are here to help. We offer a warm, welcoming environment and personalized care for patients of all ages.

Contact Excellence in Dentistry on Commercial Blvd. today and schedule a consultation. Restore your smile with confidence!

P.S. We are conveniently located near Federal Highway and Commercial Boulevard for those searching for a "dental clinic near me" or "dentist near me" in Fort Lauderdale.