Ceramic onlays conservatively rebuild damaged teeth for a restored smile

Does it hurt whenever you eat something sweet, or drink something that is cold or hot? Do you suddenly get aching tooth pain? Or, have you noticed blood on your toothbrush or floss? Get in touch with Beverly Hills Advanced Specialties of Dentistry today! It sounds like you may have damaged your tooth. And, often, by the time symptoms are noticeable, the decay or trauma has progressed to the point where restorative treatment is necessary.

With that being said, our specialists in Beverly Hills, California, Drs Fanny Yacaman and Frank Vidjak, emphasize conservative treatment. In fact, ceramic onlays (also known as “partial crowns”) may be an appropriate alternative to full-coverage dental crowns.

A guide to onlays

Of course, we will not know what is best for your situation or needs until after evaluating your mouth. Our specialists also use advanced diagnostics to “see” hidden areas of decay or other problems that cannot be detected with visual inspection alone. Highly detailed imaging, for instance, informs accurate diagnoses. With an accurate diagnosis in hand, we can determine the most appropriate treatment to resolve toothaches and other symptoms, and to restore the appearance, function, and health of the affected tooth.

Teeth that have sustained damage to both the chewing surfaces as well as at least one “cusp” (the tips or points of each tooth), may be great candidates for dental onlays. The onlay is designed at our onsite lab to “fill in” the damaged surface of the tooth, as well as the affected “cusps.” Once the onlay is ready, we precisely secure it to damaged area, which has been “prepared.” By “prepared,” we assure that all diseased or damaged tissue has been removed. Due to the techniques used to place non-metal (ceramics or composites) restorations, very little natural and healthy tooth structure must be altered to accommodate the filling, inlay, or onlay.

Once secured, the onlay may be treated just like a natural tooth – with good care at home and regular visits to our office. Additionally, the tooth-colored ceramic blends in seamlessly with the surrounding tooth. Due to the conservative nature of these restorations, utmost tooth structure is preserved, which supports the lasting function and health of the treated tooth.

Patients with more extensive or deep decay or injury may benefit from full-coverage crowns, possibly following endodontic treatment by Dr. Yacaman. Patients with more modest damage can benefit from fillings or dental inlays, the latter of which only cover the chewing surface of the affected tooth (not any of the cusps). As a specialist in the repair of lost or deficient oral tissues, our prosthodontist, Dr. Vidjak, will evaluate your tooth to determine the best option to restore your comfort and healthy function. Call (310) 861-3955 to schedule your consultation today, or request an appointment online.

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