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RESTORATIVE DENTISTRY
Crowns
& Onlays
When a tooth is compromised by decay, fracture, or structural wear, the goal is to rebuild its strength and function while keeping as much of the original tooth as possible. Dr. Martin starts there — recommending an onlay when healthy structure remains worth preserving, and a full crown when the damage is extensive enough to warrant complete coverage.
Both restorations are made from custom ceramic, which closely mimics the optical properties of natural enamel and holds up well under normal bite forces. Preparation removes only what's necessary. The finished restoration is matched in shade and contour to the surrounding teeth. With consistent care, ceramic crowns and onlays typically last fifteen to twenty-five years. Dr. Martin checks the margins and fit of every existing restoration at each recall visit so small changes get caught before they turn into larger problems.
What are crowns and onlays made of, and does material matter?
We use custom ceramic restorations at our practice — specifically because ceramic closely mimics the optical properties of natural tooth enamel, producing a result that blends seamlessly with surrounding teeth. Ceramic is also biocompatible and doesn't carry the aesthetic compromises associated with older metal or metal-ceramic restorations. Material absolutely matters for longevity and appearance, and the ceramic systems available today are highly durable — well-suited to the functional demands placed on posterior teeth. We select materials based on the location of the tooth, the bite forces in that area, and the aesthetic goals of the restoration.
What's the difference between a crown and an onlay, and how do you decide which one I need?
The difference comes down to how much healthy tooth structure remains and how much coverage the restoration needs to provide. An onlay covers one or more cusps of the tooth but leaves more of the natural tooth intact — it's a conservative option for teeth that are damaged but still have substantial healthy structure worth preserving. A crown encases the entire visible portion of the tooth and is appropriate when the damage or decay is more extensive. At our practice, we default to the most conservative restoration that will provide adequate protection and longevity — which means recommending an onlay when the tooth warrants it rather than defaulting to a full crown when less intervention will do.
How long do crowns and onlays last?
With proper care, a well-placed ceramic crown or onlay can last fifteen to twenty-five years or longer — though the honest answer is that longevity depends heavily on how the restoration is maintained. Regular professional cleanings, consistent home care, and protecting the restoration from excessive force — particularly if you clench or grind — are all significant factors. At our practice, we also monitor restorations at every recall visit, catching any early wear or marginal changes before they become larger problems. A restoration that's maintained well outlasts one that isn't by a significant margin.
Will getting a crown be painful, and what does recovery look like?
The procedure itself is performed under local anesthesia and should not be painful. Some post-procedure sensitivity — particularly to temperature changes — is normal for a few days to a couple of weeks as the tooth settles. If a tooth required significant preparation or had existing decay close to the nerve, that sensitivity may be more pronounced. At our practice, we discuss what to expect before and after the appointment so patients aren't caught off guard. Persistent or worsening pain beyond the normal adjustment period is something we want to hear about — it occasionally indicates that the tooth has a deeper issue that warrants additional evaluation.
Begin with a
comprehensive evaluation.
Every patient relationship begins with a thorough assessment and an open conversation. We take the time to understand your history, concerns, and long-term goals before recommending treatment. Complete the form below and one of our team members will reach out to you soon.
Before
and after.
Explore real patient transformations made possible through Dr. Gregory Martin’s comprehensive, all-in-one approach to care. Results vary by individual. These images are provided for educational purposes and do not guarantee specific outcomes.