Dental overlays represent a modern approach to restoring damaged teeth. These treatments bridge the gap between traditional fillings and more extensive full crowns, providing a balanced method for dental repair.
Understanding Dental Overlays
Dental overlays are custom-fabricated restorations that cover a damaged tooth surface. They typically cover the chewing surface and may extend over the cusps. They are sometimes referred to as partial crowns or onlays.
Overlays are crafted from various materials, including porcelain, composite resin, or gold. Porcelain and composite resin are favored for their ability to blend with the natural tooth color for aesthetics. Gold is chosen for its durability and strength for areas with heavy chewing forces. The function of an overlay is to rebuild and strengthen the tooth structure.
When Overlays Are Recommended
Overlays are recommended for teeth with significant decay that is too extensive for a standard filling but not severe enough to warrant a full crown. They address large cavities. Unlike fillings that can weaken a tooth, overlays strengthen the tooth structure.
They are also suitable for fractured or weakened cusps. Teeth that have undergone root canal treatment benefit from overlays, as these procedures can leave the tooth more brittle and needing structural reinforcement. Overlays preserve more of the natural tooth structure compared to full crowns, making them a less invasive choice.
The Overlay Procedure and Aftercare
The process of receiving a dental overlay begins with preparing the affected tooth. This involves removing decayed or damaged tissue. Once prepared, an impression is taken, a mold of the tooth. This impression is then sent to a dental laboratory, where the custom overlay is fabricated.
During a subsequent visit, the dentist will bond the finished overlay onto the tooth using a dental adhesive. This ensures a secure and lasting fit. The dentist will also make adjustments for proper bite alignment and comfort.
After the procedure, maintaining good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, is important for the overlay’s longevity. Avoiding very hard foods immediately after placement helps the bonding material fully set. Regular dental check-ups monitor the overlay’s condition and overall oral health.
Overlays Compared to Other Dental Restorations
Dental overlays differ from large fillings primarily in their strength and coverage. While a filling patches a hole within a tooth, an overlay covers a larger area, including the biting surface and cusps, providing structural support for extensive damage. Overlays are fabricated in a lab, offering a precise and durable restoration than direct fillings.
Compared to full dental crowns, overlays are less aggressive, preserving more of the natural tooth structure. A crown completely covers the entire tooth, requiring removal of healthy tooth material. Overlays, sometimes called “three-quarter crowns,” are chosen when a significant portion of the tooth remains healthy but needs reinforcement, balancing strength and tooth preservation.