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Filling vs. Onlay: When a Tooth Needs More Than a Filling | BEFORE & BEYOND EP13

In this episode of Before and Beyond, Dr Peter discusses a real-life dental case involving a large filling, tooth decay and a cracked wall, and explains why an indirect onlay is often a suitable option.

About The Video

In this video, Dr Peter looks at a real patient case involving a back tooth that had a large old filling, hidden decay, and a crack along the side. He explains what he saw and why that tooth needed more than just another filling. This is a helpful way to understand how dentists decide on the best option when a tooth is at risk of breaking down further.

Dr Peter talks about using an “onlay” – a custom-made piece that fits over the damaged part of the tooth. Onlays are designed to be strong and last longer, especially in areas where we chew a lot. They’re also shaped to fit the tooth well, which makes them easier to clean and more comfortable. If you’ve ever been told you need more than a filling, this video helps explain what that means in a simple and clear way.

Sometimes, a regular filling isn’t enough especially when a tooth has a lot of damage or an old filling that’s worn out. In this video, Dr Peter shows a case where part of the tooth wall was very thin and even had a crack. If left alone or filled again, that side might break under pressure. To fix this properly, he used something called an onlay. This is a strong, custom-made cover that fits over the damaged area and helps protect the rest of the tooth.

Onlays are made using digital tools, so they fit well and match the shape of your tooth. They’re made from a strong ceramic material that can handle everyday chewing and look natural too. Choosing an onlay can help keep your tooth safe and working well for the long term, especially when there’s more damage than a filling can handle.