When a tooth has become too damaged to support an extensive filling, but is still not damaged enough to require a full dental crown, a dental onlay may be the answer.
Removing even more of the natural tooth, in order to place a full crown may not be require, so a “partial crown” or dental inlays and onlays, can get the job done. Inlays and onlays are able to fill and cover large cavities without having to use a dental crown.