Onlays

The first appointment: Tooth preparation and temporary crown/onlay

• Tooth reshaping: The tooth is gently filed down to make space for the crown or onlay. If there’s a lot of missing structure, the tooth may be built up with filling material first.
• Impressions: A digital scan is taken to create your custom crown or onlay.
• Temporary crown: A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth while the final one is being made (usually in 2-3 weeks).
• Bite check and instructions: The dentist will check that your bite feels right and give you aftercare advice for the temporary crown or onlay.

This appointment can take 60-90 minutes.

The second appointment: Fitting the permanent crown

• The temporary crown or onlay is removed.
• The permanent crown or onlay is checked for fit, shape, and colour.
• Once you’re happy, the crown is cemented in place with dental adhesive.
• The dentist checks your bite and makes final adjustments to ensure it feels comfortable and natural.

This appointment can take 30-60 minutes.

An onlay covers the damaged portion of the tooth, while a crown covers the entire tooth. Onlays are more conservative and require less removal of healthy tooth structure.

Onlays typically last 10–15 years or more with good oral hygiene and regular check-ups.

No. The area is fully numbed, and most patients feel only mild pressure. Some sensitivity afterward is normal and temporary.

Fillings work for smaller cavities. If the cavity or damage covers a larger surface, a filling may not be strong enough. An onlay restores strength and prevents fractures.

Most onlays are made from porcelain or composite resin that matches the natural colour of your tooth. They are durable and aesthetically natural.

It’s rare, but it can happen if the tooth is heavily worn or if decay develops underneath. If it comes loose, we can usually rebond or replace it.

Brush and floss normally, attend regular check-ups, and avoid chewing very hard foods on the area for the first 24 hours. After that, your onlay functions like a natural tooth.