Dental Crowns vs. Dental Onlays

Dental crowns and onlay are two effective smile restorative options. However, sometimes, people use the two terms interchangeably when they have distinct characteristics. Knowing the difference between the two restoratives can help better prepare you for an upcoming consultation.

Understanding dental crowns

Dental crowns, or caps, are restoratives that completely enclose a vulnerable or damaged tooth. They comprise zirconium, porcelain, composite, or ceramic materials and offer a seamlessly natural appearance, as the latter three options are tooth-colored. Dental crowns enable the smile to function properly while restoring aesthetics and preventing damage to progress in the natural tooth.

Acquiring dental crowns typically requires two appointments. The first appointment is the longest of the two, involving the preparation of the tooth. The general dentist typically numbs the area to prevent discomfort before going in and removing too brittle structures, decay, or infection. Next, they take impressions of the mouth using 3D imaging or a physical mold, requiring the patient to bite down on wax-like material. We will then send these impressions to an offsite lab where a team can fabricate a custom crown.

After fabrication, the custom dental crown is sent to our office, and the patient will return it for placement. The process is quicker, involving the dentist testing the custom crown's fit and the patient's bite before securely bonding it. The dentist can make minor adjustments in their office.

Understanding dental onlays

The main difference between dental crowns and onlays is that the latter only covers a vulnerable tooth's cusp, the biting surface. Further, dental onlays are smaller than crowns but larger than inlays. They can consist of gold, porcelain, or ceramic materials. The general dentist will recommend them when the damage is too significant for a filling or inlay to fix.

Dental onlays are a favorite among patients and dentists due to their durability and ability to preserve the tooth's structure. They reduce the possibility of future decay and infection while providing a comfortable, secure fit. Like dental crowns, they require dental impressions and the efforts of an offsite lab for fabrication. They also require two appointments, typically following the same protocol as that required for dental crowns.

Caring for dental crowns and onlays

Dental crowns and onlays require relatively simple care. Patients should follow the same oral hygiene guidelines provided for natural teeth, such as brushing twice daily, flossing once daily, and using an alcohol-free mouth rinse. Patients should also avoid using their teeth as a tool, grinding, or clenching them, as these actions can dislodge a dental crown or onlay.

Further, avoiding acidic or heavily dyed substances is recommended as they can wear or stain the enamel. Of course, patients are welcome to these foods or drinks every once in a while, but be sure to perform oral hygiene routines immediately following consumption. Additionally, avoiding extremely chewy, sticky, or hard foods will prevent the restoratives from dislodging. Following these tips can help the dental crowns last up to 25 years and onlays up to 15 years.