Schedule Your Visit 949-620-3793

Onlays vs. Crowns: Which Is Right for Your Tooth?. Family and Cosmetic Dentist Irvine.

Archive for the ‘Onlays’ Category

Onlays vs. Crowns: Which Is Right for Your Tooth?

Posted by

When it comes to restoring damaged teeth, patients often wonder whether an onlay or a dental crown is the better option. At Art of Dentistry Institute, we believe that understanding your treatment choices helps you make confident, informed decisions about your oral health. Both onlays and crowns serve to restore function and aesthetics, but which one is right for you depends on the extent of the damage and your long-term dental goals.

What Are Dental Onlays?

Dental onlays, sometimes called “partial crowns” or “indirect fillings”, are custom-made restorations designed to repair a tooth that’s too damaged for a simple filling, but not damaged enough to require a full crown. Onlays cover one or more of the tooth’s cusps (the pointed parts on the biting surface) and are bonded directly to the prepared tooth.

When Are Onlays Recommended?

  • Moderate decay or damage limited to part of the chewing surface
  • Cracks or fractures that do not compromise the entire tooth
  • Patients seeking a conservative alternative to a full crown

The Procedure for Onlays in Irvine at Art of Dentistry Institute

Dr. Hawary will first remove any decay and prepare the tooth for treatment. An impression of the tooth will be taken and sent to a dental laboratory, where the custom onlay is fabricated, usually in about two weeks. In the meantime, a temporary filling is placed to protect the tooth. Once the onlay is ready, you’ll return to our office to have it permanently bonded into place.

What Are Dental Crowns?

A dental crown, or “cap,” fully encases the visible portion of a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are used to treat more severely damaged teeth and are supported either by the remaining tooth structure or by a dental implant.

When Are Crowns Necessary?

  • Extensive tooth decay or damage
  • Teeth weakened by repeated fillings or root canal therapy
  • Broken or worn-down teeth
  • To hold a dental bridge in place
  • Cosmetic enhancement of misshapen or discolored teeth

The Procedure for Crowns in Irvine

Much like onlays, dental crowns begin with the removal of decay and reshaping of the tooth. After impressions are taken, a crown is custom-made to fit your bite and match the color of your natural teeth. While your permanent crown is being crafted, a temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth. Once complete, the final crown is cemented in place during a follow-up visit.

Recovery and Longevity

Both onlays and crowns typically require two visits and have similar recovery timelines. Patients may experience mild sensitivity or discomfort for a few days after placement, but this usually resolves quickly.

Durability Comparison:

  • Onlays: Strong and long-lasting, especially when crafted from ceramic or porcelain. With proper care, they can last 10–15 years or more.
  • Crowns: Provide full protection and are highly durable, often lasting 15–20 years or longer with good oral hygiene.

Making the Right Choice

Choosing between an onlay and a crown depends on several factors:

  • The extent and location of the damage
  • The strength of the remaining tooth structure
  • Long-term goals for aesthetics and durability

At Art of Dentistry Institute, Dr. Hawary takes a conservative, patient-first approach to restorative dentistry. Whenever possible, we preserve your natural tooth structure using minimally invasive treatments like onlays. However, when damage is more extensive, crowns offer the strength and support needed for long-term health and function.

Schedule a Consultation at Art of Dentistry Institute

Not sure which restoration is right for you? Let us help. Schedule a consultation with Art of Dentistry Institute today, and we’ll walk you through your options with advanced imaging, personalized care, and expert guidance from Dr. Hawary and our experienced team.

Which Tooth Covering Do I Need?

Posted by

Which Tooth Covering Do I Need?Did you know that your teeth and your bite are as unique as your fingerprints? That’s why dental problems can’t be fixed by a one-size-fits-all solution. There is a wide variety of options available for correcting unsightly teeth. For most patients, accidents, tooth decay, and age contribute to a less than stellar smile. Tooth coverings are used to correct cracked, chipped, or missing teeth. But, how do you know which covering is best for your cosmetic dental needs?

Dental Onlays

Dental onlays, also known as partial crowns, are used to treat cavities, cracks, or broken teeth. They work by covering one or more of the cusps on the biting surface. Onlays are the best choice when the tooth can’t support a dental filling but doesn’t need a full crown. Ideal candidates include people with:

  • Cavities
  • Cracks
  • Chips
  • Damage that could be treated with fillings
  • Old fillings that need to be replaced

Dental onlays come in a variety of materials, but the best choice is porcelain. Porcelain onlays mimic a natural tooth appearance, are highly durable, and are resistant to staining.

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns can restore the shape, size, strength, and/or appearance of teeth. A crown is used to camouflage an unsightly tooth by encapsulating the entire visible portion of the tooth. The crown can be supported by either a natural tooth root or a dental implant. Ideal candidates include people with:

  • Decay too severe for a filling, inlay, or onlay
  • Cracks
  • Chips
  • Misalignment
  • Discoloration
  • The need for additional structural support

Dental crowns differ from veneers in that they cover the entire tooth rather than only the front portion. Crowns can be made from varying materials, and the best choice depends on the individual needs of the patient.

Tadalafil online

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are a removable replacement for missing teeth. Partial dentures are used when some of the patient’s natural teeth remain, whereas complete dentures are used when all the teeth are missing. Partial dentures are beneficial for replacing missing teeth, and they also prevent the surrounding teeth from shifting out of their correct position. Partial dentures provide a natural-looking correction to one’s smile.

Schedule your consultation with Dr. Hawary of the Art of Dentistry Institute today. Dr. Hawary can evaluate the state of your teeth and help you decide the best option for you depending on your cosmetic wishes. Dr. Hawary and his staff are eager to help you regain your unique, vibrant smile. Contact us today by call 949-620-3793 or fill out our online contact form here.  

If you are interested in a cosmetic dental procedure at Art of Dentistry in Irvine, CA, please call 949-955-3366 to schedule your dental appointment today.

Learn More About the Art of Dentistry Institute
Multiple Award Winning Dentist in cosmetic dentistry
AACD
CRCM
Medals
AACD Fellow
Fellow Logo
ICOI

Art of Dentistry Institute
2646 Dupont Dr., Suite 200
Irvine, CA 92612
Tel: 949-620-3793
Fax: 949-955-3377

Get Directions

Contact Us

Interested in bettering your smile? Provide your information below and we will reach out to you!

    We respond conversationally to your requests. Text message frequency may vary and message and data rates may apply. Reply Help to receive our contact information and Stop to opt-out at any time. Privacy Policy and SMS Terms and Conditions
  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Art of Dentistry Institute Irvine Staff

Tour Our Office

📞 Call
💬 Text
✉️ Email
🗺️ Maps