I get why onlays seem like a better option, especially if you want to keep as much of your own tooth as possible. But after my root canal, my dentist was pretty adamant about a crown because the tooth was so weak. I actually asked about onlays, but he said there just wasn’t enough structure left for it to hold up long-term. Maybe it’s different if the tooth isn’t too damaged, but for me, a crown was the safer bet. I do wish there were more middle-ground options, though… dental stuff always feels like a trade-off.
That’s actually what I’m worried about—how much tooth is really left after a root canal? I keep reading mixed things, and I feel like every dentist has a different take. My friend had an onlay after hers, but her tooth wasn’t as broken down. I get nervous thinking about losing more of my tooth for a crown, but I guess if it’s already weak, there isn’t much choice. Still, I wish there was a less drastic option. Dental decisions just stress me out...
I totally get where you’re coming from—dental stuff can be so overwhelming, especially when it feels like every dentist has a different opinion. I remember after my root canal, I was freaked out about losing more tooth for a crown too. My dentist explained that if there’s enough healthy structure left, sometimes an onlay is possible, but if the tooth is already fragile, a crown really does help protect it in the long run. It’s tough, but maybe it helps to think of it as saving what’s left rather than losing more? Dental decisions can be exhausting... you’re not alone in feeling that way.
I’m right there with you—after my root canal, I was desperate to avoid a full crown because it just felt so drastic. My second dentist actually suggested an onlay since most of my tooth was still solid, and honestly, it’s held up better than I expected. I get why some dentists push crowns for safety, but sometimes it really pays to ask about other options if you’re not sure. Dental choices are so much more complicated than they seem...
Dental choices are so much more complicated than they seem...
Totally agree. I’ve been stressing about this exact thing—my dentist keeps saying a crown is safest, but it just feels like overkill when most of my tooth is still there. Reading your experience with an onlay makes me feel a little less crazy for wanting to ask more questions. It’s hard not to worry you’ll make the wrong call, but hearing it worked out for you helps a lot.
