A procedure used to build up teeth in some cases of malocclusion.
A filling composed of gold or porcelain that is extended to cover the cusps or peaks of the teeth for greater protection of a tooth. An onlay fits into the space in a tooth that a dentist has prepared after removing decay and shaping the remaining hole. What differentiates an onlay is that it extends over the entire chewing surface, including the cusps of the tooth. This offers greater protection against the pressure caused by biting and chewing and helps to prevent possible fracture of the tooth. Dental onlays are most commonly used when a tooth has a large cavity or when the cusps of the tooth are chipped, fractured, or are very thin. The procedure for placing an onlay requires two dental visits. At the first visit, the tooth is prepared and impressions are taken. The impression is used to cast a model that can be used to fabricate an onlay that fits into the prepared space in the tooth. On the second visit, the onlay is adjusted and cemented into the cavity.