Friday, December 03, 2010
Early this week we posted information about crowns. Today we'll continue with some additional information regarding crowns and onlays.
An onlay is a restoration that replaces the central portion of a tooth plus a partial crown covering damaged cusps. It is also cemented or bonded into place. An onlay is recommended when a tooth has been extensively damaged, but has a bit more natural tooth structure remaining. It is a more conservative restoration than a full crown.
Crowns and onlays are often required where there has been too much tooth destruction for a “filling” to work. Fillings are not sufficient for repairing cracks, broken cusps, extensive decay, or severely damaged old fillings. There has to be enough of the natural tooth left to support a filling. If not, a crown or an onlay is typically the only solution.
Many patients are concerned about possible insurance coverage for crowns and onlays. While insurance may help, most will not cover all the costs for crowns, and may stipulate an “alternate benefit” of payment toward a a silver filling instead of an onlay. Most plans also have a maximum limit as to the amount of money they will pay for any treatment during a year’s time. It is our responsibility to prescribe what is best for you. The insurance carrier’s responsibility is to control payments.
Even if your insurance only covers a portion of the fee, a crown or an onlay may be the best way to restore your damaged tooth.
For more information regarding crowns and onlays inquire at your next visit at Tocci Dental. We are always happy to help!
An onlay is a restoration that replaces the central portion of a tooth plus a partial crown covering damaged cusps. It is also cemented or bonded into place. An onlay is recommended when a tooth has been extensively damaged, but has a bit more natural tooth structure remaining. It is a more conservative restoration than a full crown.
Crowns and onlays are often required where there has been too much tooth destruction for a “filling” to work. Fillings are not sufficient for repairing cracks, broken cusps, extensive decay, or severely damaged old fillings. There has to be enough of the natural tooth left to support a filling. If not, a crown or an onlay is typically the only solution.
Many patients are concerned about possible insurance coverage for crowns and onlays. While insurance may help, most will not cover all the costs for crowns, and may stipulate an “alternate benefit” of payment toward a a silver filling instead of an onlay. Most plans also have a maximum limit as to the amount of money they will pay for any treatment during a year’s time. It is our responsibility to prescribe what is best for you. The insurance carrier’s responsibility is to control payments.
Even if your insurance only covers a portion of the fee, a crown or an onlay may be the best way to restore your damaged tooth.
For more information regarding crowns and onlays inquire at your next visit at Tocci Dental. We are always happy to help!
Posted by Donna Pinzone
Comments
Post has no comments.