Will an Onlay Protect a Cracked Tooth?

My bottom right second molar cracked. My dentist sent me to an endodontist to ensure the tooth wasn’t infected and needed a complex root canal. During the visit, the endodontist recommended a crown. However, my dentist wanted to assess the damage and use a porcelain onlay instead. Do I need a crown for a cracked tooth? – Thanks. Gisella from NJ

Gisella,

Dental cracks vary in severity, from superficial enamel to deep cracks extending into the dentin or pulp. Cracks can be horizontal (affecting a cusp or pointed biting surface) or vertical (running down the middle of the tooth).

It’s important to distinguish between cracks and fractures. A cracked tooth has stable pieces, while a fractured tooth has independently moving pieces. Treatment for a cracked tooth aims to prevent it from fracturing.

What Is a Dental Onlay?

Onlays are versatile restorations that cover most of a tooth’s chewing surface. While they can be made from gold, porcelain, or composite, gold offers the most comprehensive protection for any type of crack. Porcelain suits minor cracks but may not be strong enough for severe vertical cracks. Composite, being the weakest material, is not recommended for cracked teeth.

While alternative treatments may provide temporary relief, a crown is often the most reliable long-term solution for a cracked tooth. If your dentist suggests a different approach, he or she may be skilled with onlay placements and produce durable results. If unsure about your dentist’s recommendation, get a second opinion from a skilled cosmetic dentist.

 

Metairie cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune sponsors this post. Read details about how Dr. Delaune strives to provide some of the best dental care in Metairie.