Partial vs Full Coverage Crowns

Two types of dental restorations are full coverage crowns and partial crowns, also known as inlays or onlays. These different restorations are used in different circumstances after careful evaluation by a dentist. If a major portion of the tooth is damaged, whether by decay or fracture, a crown will provide the most support and have the greatest restorative benefit. If damage is contained in only a small area of a tooth, however, an inlay or onlay may be preferable. These partial crowns protect either the grooved tooth surface (inlays) or the cusp or cusps of the tooth (onlays).

The goal of any restorative dentistry procedure, and the ultimate goal of dentistry as a whole, is to preserve the maximum amount of natural tooth structure in any procedure. Because a substantial amount of tooth tissue must be pared away before a full coverage crown can be placed, if damage is minor enough for an inlay or onlay to fully repair it, one will be used instead of a crown. This allows the dentist to preserve the tooth as much as possible.

When assessing the extent of dental damage and determining the best course of action, it’s important to consider the protective benefits of the crown. Inlays or onlays are best used in mildly or moderately damaged teeth, strengthening and reinforcing the areas where they’re needed while preserving greater tooth structure. Full coverage crowns, which cover the entire surface of the natural tooth, offer optimal protection and support and might be the only viable option when the teeth are very weak or severely damaged.

The cosmetic outcomes of full coverage crowns and partial crowns also vary, which might only matter if you’re dealing with the visible teeth in the front of the mouth. A full crown gives a uniform appearance to the tooth, which is matched to its neighbors for a cohesive smile. An inlay or an onlay, placed on a visible tooth, might be visible, too, though consistent innovation in dental technology makes it increasingly possible to blend the colors of partial crowns with the teeth.

One of the most important considerations when choosing between partial and full coverage crowns is tooth function. If the tooth isn’t heavily used in chewing, an inlay or onlay might be sufficient to protect and preserve it, while teeth that withstand substantial chewing forces or pressure from adjacent teeth would often benefit most from a crown. Another important consideration that can’t be forgotten is the preference of the patient, when clinical needs allow, which includes the patient’s budgetary needs. Crowns tend to cost more than partial crowns, though they’re also frequently covered by dental insurance. While inlays and onlays might also be covered, it’s less likely that you’ll have your choice of materials, and tooth-colored crown material might not be an option. Many dental practices work with third-party financing platforms or other credit options to ensure that patients can budget for the specifics they’re seeking. The optimal way to learn what options are available to you is to talk to your dentist, check with your insurance provider, and trust that your dental team has your best interests in mind.

Related Article: What is a Full Coverage Crown?