You bite into something crunchy and feel a sharp pain in one of your back teeth. A few minutes later, the discomfort disappears. Could the tooth be cracked? And if it is, will you need a crown? A dentist in Edina can examine the tooth and determine the extent of the damage.
CEREC technology can be used to create porcelain onlays. Depending on how much of the tooth is damaged, an onlay may help protect and restore it without covering the entire tooth.
What Happens When a Tooth Cracks?
Molars take considerable pressure when you chew. A large filling, grinding, or biting on something hard can weaken a tooth. Some cracks affect only the enamel; others reach deeper and irritate the nerve.
You might feel pain during a meal, then nothing for hours. For cracked tooth repair, your dentist needs to find where the fracture runs. A minor chip may need a filling, while a weakened cusp could require an onlay or crown.
What Are the Signs of a Cracked Tooth?
You may not see a crack in the mirror. Sometimes the first clue comes at dinner.
Common cracked tooth symptoms: biting pain may include:
- A sudden sting when biting into something
- Pain just as you stop biting down
- A tooth that reacts to hot or cold drinks
- Pain that disappears, then returns
- Soreness around one tooth
A crack isn’t the only possible cause. You could have a loose filling or decay, so your dentist will need to check what’s happening. Until then, try not to chew hard foods on that side.
What Is a CEREC Onlay?
An onlay is a custom-made restoration that repairs part of a tooth’s chewing surface and covers one or more cusps, the raised points on a molar. It is made to fit the prepared tooth and bonded into place.
CEREC technology allows a dentist to scan the tooth digitally, design a ceramic restoration, and manufacture it without sending every case to an outside laboratory.
A same-day porcelain onlay may be possible if the tooth is suitable and the necessary equipment and materials are available. At 44th Street Dental, we can discuss whether this approach fits your situation.
Onlay vs. Crown: Which Is Better for a Cracked Molar?
The question of onlay vs. crown cracked molar treatment often comes down to how much sound tooth remains.
An onlay repairs the affected chewing surface and cusps. A crown covers most or all of the visible tooth above the gums.
An onlay may be suitable if:
- The damage affects only part of the chewing surface.
- A weakened cusp needs protection.
- Enough healthy structure remains for bonding.
- The fracture does not extend too far.
A crown may be needed when the tooth is more extensively weakened. If the nerve is affected, root canal treatment may also be considered. A severe crack extending into the root can sometimes necessitate extraction.
Neither restoration can save every fractured tooth. The examination helps determine what is realistic.
How Does Same-Day CEREC Treatment Work?
If you’re considering a CEREC onlay in Edina, the visit begins with an assessment of whether your tooth is a good candidate.
Examining the Tooth
Your dentist checks the tooth, gums, and bite. X-rays can reveal other problems, although a fine crack may not show up.
Preparing the Area
Damaged material is removed as needed, while preserving healthy tooth structure where possible.
Making the Onlay
A digital scan records the prepared tooth. The restoration is designed for your bite and, when same-day fabrication is suitable, made during the visit.
Checking the Fit
Your dentist checks the fit and bite before bonding the onlay. Some cases still need a second appointment.
Can an Onlay Keep a Crack From Spreading?
An onlay may support a weakened cusp and spread chewing forces across the tooth. But it cannot erase a fracture, and some cracks progress despite treatment.
If the crack extends to an area that the onlay cannot protect, a crown or other treatment may be recommended.
Caring for Your Tooth After an Onlay
Some sensitivity is possible once the anesthetic wears off. Wait until the numbness fades before chewing so you don’t bite your cheek or tongue.
Avoid ice and other very hard foods, and continue brushing and flossing around the restoration. If your bite feels uneven or pain persists, call your dentist.
Get Your Tooth Checked Before the Damage Gets Worse
Do you feel pain or discomfort when chewing? It may be a sign that your tooth needs attention. An early dental examination can help identify the cause and determine whether a filling, onlay, or another treatment is needed. Contact 44th Street Dental to schedule an examination, discuss your symptoms, and learn about the right treatment options for your tooth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a cracked molar be repaired without a crown?
Yes, in some cases. If the crack hasn’t spread too far, an onlay may be enough to repair the tooth. It depends on where the crack is and how much of the tooth is still healthy.
Is a CEREC onlay as strong as a crown?
Both can restore damaged teeth, but they cover different areas. The better choice depends on the fracture, your bite, and the remaining tooth structure.
Does receiving an onlay hurt?
Local anesthetic is generally used during tooth preparation. You may notice mild sensitivity afterward.
Can I eat normally after a same-day onlay?
Usually, once the numbness wears off and your dentist confirms the restoration is ready. Avoid very hard foods and follow your specific aftercare instructions.