Will the procedure hurt?

No — the tooth is fully numbed with local anaesthetic before any preparation. Most patients say it's no more uncomfortable than a regular filling.

How long does each appointment take?

The preparation appointment usually takes around 60–90 minutes. The final fit visit is typically 30–45 minutes.

Will my crown look natural?

Yes. We use high-translucency e-max ceramics that mimic the optical properties of natural enamel, and we shade-match to the teeth on either side for a seamless result.

Are you accepting new patients in St Albans?

Yes — we welcome new patients of all ages. Call us on 01727 833 418 or use the form on this page to book a consultation.

Dental Crowns & Onlays in St Albans

Dental Crowns & Onlays

Restore broken, weakened or heavily filled teeth with custom-made ceramic crowns and onlays at Happy Family Dental in St Albans. Beautifully matched to your natural teeth, our restorations are designed to last for years and feel exactly like your own.

Natural, tooth-coloured e-max ceramics

Strong enough for back teeth

Conservative — onlays preserve more tooth

Custom-shaded to match neighbouring teeth

Long-lasting with proper care

Treatment usually completed in 2 visits

What's the difference between a crown and an onlay?

A crown is a tooth-shaped cap that completely covers the visible portion of a tooth, restoring its strength, shape, size and appearance. An onlay is a more conservative restoration that covers only the biting surface and one or more of the cusps — preserving more of your natural tooth structure.

At our St Albans practice, we always recommend the most conservative option that will reliably restore your tooth. For many patients, a modern e-max onlay can be a beautiful, long-lasting alternative to a full crown.

When do you need a crown or onlay?

Your dentist may recommend a crown or onlay if you have:

A large filling that has failed or is at risk of fracture
A cracked, chipped or worn tooth
A tooth that has had root canal treatment
A discoloured tooth that can't be improved with whitening or bonding
A tooth that needs to anchor a dental bridge

We use high-quality lithium-disilicate ceramics (e-max) and zirconia for our crowns and onlays — strong, biocompatible materials that look indistinguishable from natural enamel.

How long do crowns and onlays last?

With good oral hygiene, regular hygienist visits at our St Albans clinic, and avoidance of habits like nail-biting or chewing on hard objects, modern ceramic crowns and onlays typically last 10–15 years or more. Many of our patients enjoy their restorations for considerably longer.

Dental Crowns & Onlays

What's the difference between a crown and an onlay?

When do you need a crown or onlay?

How long do crowns and onlays last?

What to expect at our St Albans clinic

Consultation

Preparation

Temporary fit

Final bond

Crowns & Onlays — FAQs

Book your general dentistry consultation in St Albans

Enquire about Crowns & Onlays

Related treatments

Dental Bridges

Tooth-Coloured Fillings

Root Canal Treatment

Smile Again with Confidence