Partial crowns / onlays
Partial crowns, also known as onlays, are a conservative solution for restoring damaged or weakened teeth while preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible.Unlike a full crown, an onlay replaces only the missing or compromised parts of the tooth and is adhesively bonded to the remaining dental structure. Each restoration is individually designed to restore strength, function, and a natural appearance.
clinical case
Common questions about partial crowns and onlays
01
What is a partial crown or onlay?
A partial crown, also called an onlay, is a custom-made restoration designed to rebuild a damaged tooth while preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible. It covers only the weakened or missing parts of the tooth rather than the entire tooth.
02
When is a partial crown or onlay recommended?
An onlay may be recommended when a tooth is too damaged for a direct filling but does not require a full crown. It is commonly used for teeth with large restorations, fractures, significant wear, or weakened cusps.
03
What are onlays made of?
Onlays are most commonly made of ceramic or high-performance composite materials. The material is selected according to the tooth, the bite, the aesthetic requirements, and the individual clinical situation.
04
Are onlays more conservative than full crowns?
Yes. Because only the damaged or weakened areas are prepared, onlays generally preserve more natural tooth structure than full crowns. They are therefore an excellence option within a minimally invasive treatment approach.
05
How long do onlays last?
Well-designed and well-maintained onlays can remain stable for many years. Their longevity depends on the amount of remaining tooth structure, the quality of the adhesive bonding, the bite, oral hygiene, parafunctional habits, and regular maintenance.
