If your tooth chips, you may wonder whether you need a crown or onlay. To answer this question, let’s go over the difference between a crown and onlay. A crown covers the entire biting surface of the tooth. This includes the tooth structure above the gum line.
On the contrary, an onlay is a minor restoration. To fit the onlay, a dentist will need to scrape off a bit of the tooth structure. An onlay is also a bit cheaper than a crown. Most onlays will last around 10 years while crowns can last between 5 to 15 years, depending on how the treatment is performed and how you care for your teeth.
If a substantial piece of your tooth breaks off or the tooth is full of decay, Dr. Moore may file away part of the remaining tooth and cover it with a crown. This will protect it and improve the way it looks. In the event Dr. Moore determines the chipping isn’t too bad and more of your tooth structure can be saved, he may recommend an onlay.
Once you notice a chipped tooth, don’t ignore it. Contact our office so we can get you in and determine what needs to be done. While a chipped tooth may not seem like a big deal, it can lead to more chips and even tooth loss. Fortunately, chipped teeth are usually simple and relatively quick to repair. The Mooresville, NC dentists at Davidson & Burr state that getting chipped teeth repaired is something you should do sooner rather than later.
In addition to taking away from the beauty of your smile, chipped teeth come with other consequences. They may cause cuts in your mouth, tooth sensitivity, broken teeth, and infection. A healthy smile often brings a healthy lifestyle.
Contact Moore Family Dentistry Today
If you have further questions about Moore Family Dentistry or our treatments for chipped teeth, don’t hesitate to contact us today. You can reach us at 919.772.1811. We look forward to hearing from you!
