Signature Restoration

Crowns, Onlays & Overlays

Restore damaged, weakened or heavily decayed teeth with high-strength ceramic restorations designed to restore strength, function and natural aesthetics — typically completed in just 2 visits.

Digital Precision

No messy impressions. Just a comfortable digital scan.

Traditionally, crowns, onlays and overlays require a physical dental impression, which some patients may find uncomfortable. At Zen Smiles, we use 3D digital scanning to capture a highly accurate digital impression of your teeth — no bulky impression material, less discomfort and a more comfortable experience. Your final ceramic restoration is then carefully crafted and fitted over two visits, typically around two weeks apart.

Clinical Journey

The Treatment Procedure

Every tooth is different. We carefully assess your tooth and recommend the most suitable restoration — crown, onlay or overlay — based on its condition and the amount of healthy tooth structure remaining.

Diagnosis & Treatment Planning

We carefully examine your tooth with clinical tests and X-rays where indicated to assess the extent of damage or decay. Your dentist will explain whether a crown, onlay or overlay is most suitable for your tooth.

Tooth Preparation & Digital Scan

The tooth is carefully prepared while preserving healthy tooth structure where possible. A 3D digital scan is taken, and a temporary restoration is placed to protect your tooth while the final restoration is being made.

Custom Laboratory Fabrication

Your digital scan is sent to dental laboratory, where your crown, onlay or overlay is custom-crafted from high-quality ceramic with careful attention to fit, function and aesthetics.

Final Fitting & Placement

At your second visit, we carefully check the fit, bite and appearance of your final restoration before securely bonding or cementing it in place.

Patient Resource

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about Crown, Onlay, Overlay

What is the difference between a crown, onlay and overlay — and which one do I need?

A crown covers the entire tooth, while an onlay or overlay covers only the weakened or damaged areas, preserving more of your natural tooth. Your dentist will recommend the most suitable option based on the condition of your tooth, remaining tooth structure and bite.

Do I need root canal treatment before a crown, onlay or overlay?

Not always. If the nerve is healthy, root canal treatment is usually not needed. However, it may be required if the nerve is inflamed, infected or affected by deep decay or cracks. In some cases, root canal treatment may still be needed in the future.

Can my tooth still decay or crack after a crown, onlay or overlay?

Yes. These restorations protect and strengthen the tooth, but decay or cracks can still occur. Good oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups and avoiding very hard foods can help protect your restoration.

Can I eat normally after treatment?

Yes. Once your final restoration is fitted and your bite is comfortable, you can generally eat normally. Avoid biting very hard objects, and a night guard may be recommended if you grind or clench your teeth.