Onlay meaning

An onlay is a type of dental restoration that is placed over the cusp of a tooth to repair damage or prevent further decay.


Onlay definitions

Word backwards yalno
Part of speech The word "onlay" is a noun.
Syllabic division on-lay
Plural The plural of the word "onlay" is "onlays."
Total letters 5
Vogais (2) o,a
Consonants (3) n,l,y

What is an Onlay?

An onlay is a type of dental restoration used to repair a damaged or decayed tooth. This procedure is often recommended when a tooth has a large cavity or when there is damage to the chewing surface. Onlays are custom-made to fit the specific shape of the damaged tooth and are typically made from materials such as porcelain, gold, or composite resin.

How is an Onlay Different from an Inlay?

An onlay is similar to an inlay in that both are used to repair damaged teeth, but they differ in the extent of the damage they can repair. While an inlay is used to fill a cavity within the cusps of the tooth, an onlay is used when the damage extends to one or more of the cusps. Onlays are also known as partial crowns because they cover more of the tooth's surface than inlays.

The Onlay Procedure

The process of getting an onlay typically involves two appointments to the dentist. During the first appointment, the dentist will prepare the damaged tooth by removing any decay and shaping it to fit the onlay. An impression of the tooth will be taken and sent to a dental laboratory where the onlay will be custom-made. At the second appointment, the onlay will be placed and bonded to the tooth using a strong dental adhesive.

Benefits of Onlays

Onlays offer several advantages, including preserving more of the natural tooth structure compared to traditional fillings. They are also more durable and long-lasting, providing a strong and reliable restoration. Additionally, onlays can be color-matched to the natural teeth, creating a seamless and natural-looking result.

Cost and Materials Used

The cost of an onlay can vary depending on the materials used and the complexity of the procedure. Materials commonly used for onlays include porcelain, gold, and composite resin. Porcelain onlays are popular for their natural appearance and durability, while gold onlays are known for their strength and longevity.

In conclusion,

onlays are an effective treatment option for repairing damaged or decayed teeth. They offer a durable and long-lasting solution while preserving more of the natural tooth structure. If you have a damaged tooth that requires restoration, consult with your dentist to see if an onlay is the right option for you.


Onlay Examples

  1. The dentist used an onlay to repair the cavity in the patient's tooth.
  2. The craftsman added an intricate onlay design to the wooden furniture.
  3. The jeweler embellished the ring with a beautiful onlay of precious stones.
  4. The artist created a stunning onlay mosaic on the floor of the cathedral.
  5. The chef garnished the dessert with an edible onlay made of sugar.
  6. The contractor installed an onlay of decorative tiles on the fireplace.
  7. The tailor added an onlay of lace to the hem of the wedding dress.
  8. The architect designed a modern onlay panel for the exterior of the building.
  9. The bookbinder added a gold onlay to the spine of the leather-bound book.
  10. The blacksmith forged an intricate onlay to adorn the iron gate.


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  • Updated 05/04/2024 - 03:37:23