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Taking care of your teeth is not all about brushing and flossing. Every now and then, a cavity or tooth fracture needs a little help from the dentist. Dental fillings and onlays are two popular treatments, and while both can repair a tooth and get your smile whole again, both differ from one another. Knowing how each works can make your decision a whole lot easier.
What is Dental Filling?
A filling is one of the fastest and easiest ways to fix a tooth with minor damage or decay. Your dentist cleans out the bad part of the tooth and fills it with a material like composite resin, metal, or ceramic.
Fillings work well on tiny to medium-sized cavities and can usually be completed on a single visit. They’re easy, affordable, and can help you get your life back on track soon.
Why people like fillings:
- Quick and easy: Typically completed under one hour.
- Affordability: Cheaper than other tooth repair procedures.
- Blends in: Tooth-colored fillings can match your natural smile.
Where fillings are lacking:
- Not as strong for big repairs.
- May wear down, chip, or become loose over time, particularly if you tend to chew a lot on your tooth.
What is a Dental Onlay?
A tooth onlay is also referred to as a “partial crown.” It’s larger than a filling but smaller than a complete crown. The onlays are specifically fabricated in a lab from porcelain, composite resin, or gold. They cover one or several of your tooth’s elevated points, known as cusps on your chewing surface.
Onlays are usually recommended when a tooth has more damage than a filling can handle but doesn’t need a full crown.
Why people choose onlays:
- Longer lasting: They can endure for several years with proper care.
- Saves more tooth: It requires less drilling than a crown.
- Perfect fit: Made just for your tooth for comfort and strength.
- Looks great: Porcelain onlays can match your tooth color.
Where onlays are lacking:
- More expensive than fillings.
- Requires a minimum of two visits to finish.
How to Decide?
Your choice depends on how much damage your tooth has, where it’s located, your budget, and how long you want the fix to last. Fillings are usually the go to for small problems. Onlays are better for larger areas, that need extra strength.
Conclusion
Both onlays and fillings can restore your tooth, and maintain your beautiful smile. By understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each and seeking recommendations from your dentist, you can choose the solution, that suits you best.