Restore Strength and Function to Damaged Teeth
If you have a damaged, decayed, or weakened tooth, a dental crown or onlay can restore its strength, function, and appearance. At Smile Source Atlanta East, we provide high-quality, custom-made crowns and onlays designed to protect and preserve your natural teeth. Whether you need to repair a fractured tooth or reinforce a large filling, our team will ensure you receive a durable and natural-looking restoration.
What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that covers a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its structure and protect it from further damage. Crowns are commonly used for:
- Severely Decayed Teeth – When a tooth has too much damage for a filling.
- Cracked or Fractured Teeth – To reinforce a tooth that has suffered structural damage.
- After a Root Canal – To protect and restore a tooth that has undergone a root canal.
- Tooth Replacement with a Bridge or Implant – Crowns anchor dental bridges and cover dental implants.
- Cosmetic Enhancement – To improve the appearance of discolored or misshapen teeth.
Types of Dental Crowns We Offer
- Porcelain Crowns – Provide a natural appearance and blend seamlessly with surrounding teeth.
- Metal Crowns – Made of gold or other metals, offering superior strength for molars.
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns – A balance of aesthetics and durability.
- Zirconia Crowns – Highly durable and natural-looking, perfect for front and back teeth.
What Are Dental Onlays?
A dental onlay is a more conservative alternative to a full crown, used when a tooth has moderate damage but still retains healthy structure. Unlike fillings, which only fill small cavities, onlays cover a larger portion of the tooth, reinforcing its strength.
When Is an Onlay a Better Option?
- When a filling is not enough to restore the tooth
- When a full crown is unnecessary, preserving more natural tooth structure
- When a tooth has moderate decay or fracture on its chewing surface
The Dental Crown and Onlay Process
- Consultation and Examination
- We assess your tooth with digital X-rays to determine the best restoration option.
- Tooth Preparation
- For crowns, the tooth is reshaped to allow a snug fit for the restoration.
- For onlays, only the damaged portion of the tooth is removed, preserving healthy enamel.
- Impressions and Temporary Crown/Onlay
- We take impressions to create a custom-fit restoration.
- A temporary crown or onlay is placed to protect the tooth while the permanent one is fabricated.
- Final Placement
- Once ready, the permanent crown or onlay is bonded to the tooth for a secure, long-lasting fit.
Caring for Your Dental Crown or Onlay
To ensure the longevity of your restoration:
- Brush and floss daily to prevent plaque buildup around the crown or onlay.
- Avoid chewing hard foods like ice or hard candies.
- Schedule routine dental checkups to monitor the condition of your restoration.
- Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth at night.
With proper care, dental crowns and onlays can last 10-15 years or longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do dental crowns and onlays last?
With proper care, crowns and onlays can last between 10–15 years or longer. Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits can help extend their lifespan.
Are dental crowns and onlays painful?
No, the procedure is performed under local anesthesia to ensure a painless experience. Some mild sensitivity may occur after the procedure, but it usually subsides within a few days.
What is the difference between an onlay and a crown?
An onlay covers only the damaged portion of a tooth, preserving more natural structure, while a crown fully encases the tooth for maximum protection.
Will my dental insurance cover crowns or onlays?
Many insurance plans cover part of the cost of crowns and onlays, especially when they are needed for structural reasons. Our team can check your coverage and discuss payment options.
Can a crown or onlay fix a cracked tooth?
Yes, both crowns and onlays can restore strength and function to a cracked tooth, preventing further damage and tooth loss.
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Schedule a Consultation for Crowns or Onlays
If you have a damaged or weakened tooth, Smile Source Atlanta East can restore your smile with custom dental crowns or onlays. We proudly serve patients in Stone Mountain, GA, and surrounding communities.
