Celebrate WCD Invisalign Week and enjoy up to $2000 off!

Sign Up

Dental Onlays in Washington, DC

Ready to get started?

Contact Us

Overview

A beautiful, stunning smile can't be achieved with decayed, cavity-filled teeth. That's why dental onlays are an extremely effective dental treatment used to repair cavities and tooth decay by replacing one or more decayed cusps, or the bumps, on the tooth’s surface. When the skilled dentists at Washington Center for Dentistry determine that a tooth is too damaged for a filling, they will use dental onlays as a viable solution. Larger in size than a dental inlay and made from gold, porcelain or resin, this treatment is effective in restoring larger cavities. Onlays are long-lasting, and with proper maintenance and care, they can last up to 30 years.

What Are the Benefits?

Here's a riddle for you: what restoration treatment is between a filling and a crown? An onlay, of course, and it offers some distinct advantages! When a damaged tooth is capped unnecessarily with a crown, more tooth structure is removed than needed. This leads to more trouble down the road. When a large dental filling is used to repair a cavity, the tooth’s structure can be further weakened, which puts you at-risk for more painful, unsightly symptoms, such as a cracked or broken tooth that could require a root canal. An onlay forgoes all of these issues, while effectively repairing the damaged tooth. Once the onlay is in, all you have to do is enjoy your beautifully restored teeth.

I've been a patient of Washington center for Dentistry for a while and I always have an amazing experience. My last visit at Washington center for Dentistry was the BEST experience ever!! The dental team that took care of me was Dr Shlansky and Teresa. I am so thankful for how both Dr Shlansky and Teresa noticed how nervous I was from the beginning . They  explained everything to me, like when I would feel pressure or before they started to "drill" on my tooth. During my procedure my team always checked my comfort level and explained what was happening next. Not only did they explain to me what was happening but also why my tooth ended up needing my procedure. Washington center for dentistry is superior to any Dentists I've ever been to. The Center is so state of the art with all of the latest dental technology. The treatment room was beautiful, and modern!! I would recommend all of my family and friends and fellow Yelpers to visit Washington Center for Dentistry, you won't be disappointed!

T.G. Yelp

Dr Deutsch has been my dentist for the last 25 years! I love his staff, love his office, and love him. At this point I've seen most of his colleagues too and they are fantastic as well. When I came to D.C. 26 years ago, I went to a recommended dentist close to my then-office, who told me that I would have to come in every three months for cleanings and that I was going to need tons on work. I was shocked: back in my hometown, my dentist had always told me I had great teeth and a healthy mouth. I went to Dr Deutsch for a second opinion (which was that I had - and have to this day - great oral health) and have never looked back.

M.L. Facebook

During my first day of vacation (being from Europe) I faced extremely serious 'teeth issues' and needed to be seen by a dentist asap. But where to you go? I went to WCFD on Monday July 1st at 7 AM, hoping they could help me. What a nice people!! Dr. Shlansky helped me, had all the time for me and made sure I could carry on with my vacation. A big thank you to her and her great team of friendly and helpful people. Dutch dentists could learn from this. Thanks so much.

T.V. Facebook

Beautiful office. I felt right at home as soon as I walked in. The hygienist and dentist were very professional and personable. This will be my dentist now.

T.R. Google

A fantastic experience here! Very pleasant, professional and extremely caring and personal staff. Dr. Katsaros was through in explaining my dental needs and providing the options on things that I...

P.C. Yahoo

562

Total Reviews

4.9

Average Rating

Indirect vs. Direct Onlays

Onlays are distinguished between "indirect" and "direct." As an informed patient, we think that it's important that you know the difference, as well as the process involved in each.

Indirect Onlays. With indirect onlays, one of our talented dentists will first remove any tooth decay. An impression of the tooth will then be made to be sent to the In-House Dental Lab. While the onlay is being created, a temporary filling will be put into the tooth. When the onlay is ready, the filling will be taken out and the onlay will be cemented on. Now, you can confidently smile from ear to ear.

Direct Onlays. With direct onlays, decay is first removed and then one of our dentists will fill the tooth with a soft material, composite resin. Using advanced imaging, the dentist will take a picture of the affected tooth in order to create and apply the onlay. Your tooth will be good as new and in some cases, even better than before!

Learn More About Dental Onlays

The Washington Center for Dentistry is located in the heart of D.C. We have a caring, compassionate team of board-certified dentists and dental assistants who will ensure your visit is efficient and that your treatment is customized for you. Dental Onlays are a proven way to regain a healthy, beautiful smile. Call our office today and schedule your consultation and we'll be happy to assist you and make you feel right at home.

All Photos
About Us
When does a tooth need an onlay?
Dental onlays are typically recommended for a tooth that has too much decay or damage to be repaired by a filling or if the structure of the tooth is weakened to the point where a filling may crack it. Dental onlays allow more of the tooth’s structure to be saved, preserving its durability and lifetime.
Does getting a dental onlay hurt?
Getting a dental onlay is very similar to getting a filling or having a crown placed. Most patients experience little to no discomfort during the procedure. At Washington Center for Dentistry, our experienced doctors combine a gentle touch with the latest local anesthetics and sedation options to ensure you remain comfortable during your visit with us. After the onlay is placed, some patients may experience mild tooth sensitivity as the tooth adjusts, but this is usually temporary and typically goes away quickly.
How long does it take to get an onlay?
Dental onlays are placed in two office visits. During the first visit, a mold is made of the tooth so our in-house lab can create the onlay. The tooth is then prepped, and a temporary filling is placed. When your custom-made onlay is ready, you’ll come back to have it placed. Both visits generally take about 45 minutes each.
How long do dental onlays last?
How long a dental onlay lasts depends on a number of factors, including the size of the repair, oral health, and more. Generally, most patients can expect an onlay to last up to 20 years or longer in some cases. With regular dental exams and good oral hygiene, some patients have even seen an onlay last up to 30 years.