An onlay covers part of the chewing surface and one or more cusps. An overlay covers most or all of the chewing surface of the tooth.
When a tooth has moderate damage but does not require a full crown, dental onlays and overlays offer a strong, long-lasting solution. At Lakewood Dental in Carshalton, these custom restorations are used to rebuild chewing surfaces, protect weakened teeth and preserve as much natural tooth structure as possible.
Onlays and overlays are carefully crafted to restore function and appearance while supporting the long-term health of your tooth.
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Conservative alternative to full crowns
Custom ceramic restorations
Designed to strengthen damaged teeth
Preserve more natural tooth structure
Durable and natural looking results
Dental onlays and overlays are indirect restorations used when a tooth has moderate damage affecting the biting surface or cusps.
An onlay covers part of the chewing surface and one or more cusps of a tooth.
An overlay extends further to cover most or all of the chewing surface.
Both restorations are custom made in a dental laboratory and fitted during a second appointment. They are designed to restore strength while maintaining the natural shape and function of your tooth.
At Lakewood Dental, onlays and overlays are designed using biomimetic principles. This means the restoration is layered to mimic the natural structure of dentine and enamel.
The materials used are selected to behave in a similar way to natural tooth tissue, helping to:
Reinforce weakened teeth
Reduce the risk of cracks or fractures
Restore natural bite forces
Maintain long-term tooth integrity
This approach allows restorations to feel and function as close to a natural tooth as possible.
Onlays and overlays offer several advantages over traditional fillings or crowns in suitable cases, including:
Minimally invasive treatment
Long-lasting ceramic materials
Improved strength compared with large fillings
Natural appearance and comfort
Protection against further tooth damage
01
Your dentist examines the affected tooth and takes X-rays and digital scans to assess the extent of damage. These scans provide detailed information used to plan your restoration accurately.
02
A digital impression is sent to a dental technician, who fabricates your restoration to precise measurements and shade specifications. Biomimetic materials are selected where appropriate to support strength and aesthetics.
03
Your onlay or overlay is fitted under local anaesthetic to ensure comfort. The fit, bite and appearance are checked carefully before the restoration is bonded in place.
For patients who feel anxious, sedation options may be discussed in advance.
Principal Dentist
Dr Patel is responsible for planning and delivering restorative treatments such as onlays and overlays, with a focus on preserving natural tooth structure, function and aesthetics.
Clinical Denture Technician
Mr Hinckley designs and fabricates bespoke onlays and overlays, working closely with the clinical team to ensure precise fit, durability and natural appearance.
Patients across Carshalton and surrounding Surrey areas choose Lakewood Dental for restorative care because we focus on precision, preservation and patient comfort.
Conservative restorative dentistry approach
Modern digital diagnostics
Custom laboratory-made restorations
Clear explanations and honest guidance
Calm, supportive environment
Our aim is always to restore your tooth in the least invasive and most predictable way possible.
If you have a damaged tooth and want a conservative, long-lasting solution, dental onlays and overlays may be the ideal option.
Book Online to arrange your consultation at Lakewood Dental in Carshalton today.
An onlay covers part of the chewing surface and one or more cusps. An overlay covers most or all of the chewing surface of the tooth.
For moderate tooth damage, onlays and overlays are often stronger and longer lasting than large fillings while preserving more tooth structure than crowns.
With good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, they can last many years. Longevity depends on bite forces and care.
Treatment is carried out under local anaesthetic, so discomfort during the procedure is minimal. Mild sensitivity afterwards is normal and usually short lived.
Brush and floss as normal, attend regular dental check-ups and avoid biting hard objects to help protect your restoration.
