Can I Get an 'Onlay' Instead of a 'Crown' After a Root Canal on Tooth 13 - Premolar? (photo)

based on the x-ray I would prefer a crown. There is not much tooth structure left and the margin between 13 and 14 is very deep under the gum. You need better tooth structure and a margin that is not soo deep to get a predictable long term onlay.

Depending on how many walls and how think they are, you may or may not need a post as well.

good luck

Dr. T

You might be able to do an onlay, but it may not be as predicable as a crown.  There is a lot of lost tooth structure.  The decay extends below the gumline on the back of the tooth and that is not compatible with a good margin.  The best would be to shave some off the top or the tooth and just let it erupt up a couple of millimeters or even use a little orthodontics.  Looking at the x-ray the margin is at the level of the bone.  It needs to be at least 2mm from the bone or it will be chronically irritated and cause gum disease or a food pocket.