Onlay

An onlay is a type of indirect dental restoration fabricated outside the mouth to repair a tooth that has damage extending beyond what a simple filling can restore. It covers one or more of the chewing surfaces (cusps) of a tooth and is bonded into place, restoring shape and function while conserving more natural tooth tissue than a full crown.

Onlays are typically recommended when decay or fracture is too extensive for a filling but the remaining tooth structure is sufficient to avoid a crown. The procedure usually involves removing the damaged tooth material, taking an impression or digital scan, and cementing the custom-made onlay at a second visit; with proper care an onlay can provide a long-lasting and conservative restoration option.