When Should You Get an Onlay vs a Dental Crown?

When a damaged tooth needs to be restored, two of the most popular options are onlays and dental crowns. Both treatments offer durable solutions to protect and preserve teeth, leaving many patients wondering what the difference between onlays vs. crowns is and which treatment is right for them. Fortunately, you don't have to make the decision alone.

At Maison BE Dental Studio in New York, NY, Dr. Ellen Katz provides a full range of advanced dental restorations, including onlays and crowns, to help patients protect and restore their dental health and a beautiful smile. Generally speaking, onlays are used for minor dental repairs, while crowns are reserved for cases of more extensive damage. Still, Dr. Katz assesses each case individually and will provide a customized treatment plan recommendation.

What is a dental onlay?

An onlay is a conservative restorative (and largely cosmetic) option that is often referred to as a "partial crown." Dental onlays are typically used to repair a tooth that has been damaged by decay or trauma but doesn't require a full crown. Onlays cover the cusps — or the raised points — of the tooth and are custom-made to fit perfectly within the tooth's structure. Some common reasons for getting a dental onlay include:

• The tooth has moderate damage, but enough healthy structure remains
• The damage is too extensive for a simple filling
• Preserving as much of the natural tooth as possible is preferred

Onlays are usually crafted from porcelain or composite resin to match the natural color of your tooth, making them a discreet yet durable option for restoring function and appearance.

When is a dental crown recommended?

A dental crown is a full-coverage restoration that encases the visible portion of the tooth, leading many people to call them "caps" informally. Crowns are often used in cases where the tooth is more severely damaged, fractured, or has undergone a procedure like a root canal. Crowns offer comprehensive protection and support, preventing further damage and restoring the tooth's function. Dr. Katz may recommend a dental crown if:

• The tooth is too weak to support an onlay
• You've had a large filling that's weakened the tooth
• A tooth is cracked or has significant decay
• You've undergone root canal therapy

Crowns are highly durable and can be made from porcelain, ceramic, or other materials that closely resemble the natural look of your teeth.

What's the difference between crowns and onlays?

While both onlays and crowns are effective at restoring teeth, they serve different purposes based on the extent of damage to the tooth. Here are a few key differences between onlays vs. crowns to consider:

Coverage

Onlays cover only part of the tooth, while crowns cover the entire visible portion of the tooth.

Conservation of tooth structure

Onlays are a more conservative treatment option because they preserve more of your natural tooth structure. Crowns require more of the tooth to be reshaped for proper placement.

Durability

Both onlays and crowns offer long-lasting results, but crowns provide more comprehensive protection for teeth that have significant damage or decay.

Aesthetic options

Both onlays and crowns can be made from tooth-colored materials for a natural look. However, onlays may be less noticeable since they only cover part of the tooth.

How do I know if I need a crown or an onlay?

Deciding between an onlay and a crown depends on a variety of factors, including the condition of your tooth and your specific dental needs — among others. During your consultation at Maison BE Dental Studio, Dr. Katz will assess the damage to your tooth and recommend the most appropriate treatment possible. In some cases, preserving as much of the natural tooth as possible may be the priority, making an onlay the ideal option. In other cases, a crown may be necessary to provide the strength and durability needed for long-term protection. Dr. Katz will work with you to determine the solution for restoring your tooth, ensuring that your treatment plan is customized to meet your goals and maintain the health and aesthetics of your smile.

Restore your smile and protect your natural teeth with dental restorations in New York, NY

Whether you need an onlay, a dental crown, or another dental restoration, New York dentist Dr. Ellen Katz at Maison BE Dental Studio offers the highest level of care to restore your smile and protect your oral health. With personalized treatment plans and advanced restorative options, we're here to help you achieve a healthy, functional, and beautiful smile. Contact us today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Katz and learn more about how we can help with your dental restoration needs.