Same-Day Crowns
Dental crowns are an essential restorative treatment for teeth that are significantly damaged, decayed, or weakened. Traditionally, getting a crown required at least two appointments spread over multiple weeks. Our practice has invested in advanced technology that allows us to design, create, and place your permanent crown in a single visit—saving you time while providing exceptional results.
What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a custom-made "cap" that covers the entire visible portion of a tooth above the gumline. Crowns restore a tooth's shape, size, strength, and appearance while protecting the underlying structure from further damage. They're typically recommended when:
- A tooth has a large filling and insufficient remaining structure
- A tooth is cracked or fractured
- A tooth has undergone root canal therapy
- A tooth is severely worn or eroded
- A tooth is severely discolored or misshapen
- A dental implant needs to be restored
The Same-Day Crown Advantage
Our same-day crown system uses computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology to create precise, durable restorations while you wait. Compared to traditional crowns, same-day crowns offer significant benefits:
- Single appointment — No need for multiple visits
- No temporary crowns — Eliminates the discomfort and inconvenience of temporary restorations
- Digital precision — 3D scanning technology captures exact measurements for a perfect fit
- Conservation of tooth structure — Digital design often requires less tooth reduction
- Immediate results — Walk out with your permanent restoration the same day
- Natural appearance — High-quality ceramic materials match your natural teeth
Our Same-Day Crown Process
The entire same-day crown procedure typically takes about 2 hours and follows these steps:
- Preparation: We gently prepare the tooth by removing decay and shaping it to properly support a crown. This step is similar to traditional crown preparation but may be more conservative.
- Digital impression: Rather than using messy traditional impression materials, we use a small intraoral scanner to take digital 3D images of your prepared tooth and surrounding teeth. This process takes just minutes and is much more comfortable than conventional impressions.
- Crown design: Using specialized software, we design your crown digitally, customizing every aspect including the shape, fit, and color to match your natural teeth. You can even view the design on a monitor and provide input.
- Crown milling: Once the design is finalized, our in-office milling unit carves your crown from a solid block of high-quality ceramic material. This precision fabrication process typically takes 15-20 minutes.
- Finishing touches: After milling, we may customize the crown with stains and glazes to perfectly match your natural teeth before strengthening it in a special oven.
- Placement: Finally, we check the fit of your new crown, make any necessary adjustments, and permanently bond it to your tooth using dental cement.
Throughout the process, you can relax in our office—read, catch up on work, or enjoy entertainment options we provide. Many patients appreciate being able to watch parts of the fabrication process.
Materials Used for Same-Day Crowns
Our same-day crowns are crafted from high-strength ceramic materials that offer both durability and natural aesthetics:
- Lithium disilicate: An incredibly strong glass-ceramic that provides excellent translucency for a lifelike appearance
- Zirconia: One of the strongest dental ceramics available, ideal for back teeth that endure heavy chewing forces
These materials are metal-free and biocompatible, making them an excellent choice for patients with metal sensitivities or those who prefer metal-free restorations.
Caring for Your Same-Day Crown
With proper care, your same-day crown can last for many years:
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene with regular brushing and flossing
- Use a nightguard if you grind or clench your teeth
- Avoid using your teeth as tools to open packages or bite hard objects
- Attend regular dental checkups for professional monitoring
- Consider avoiding extremely sticky or hard foods that could potentially damage the crown
Is a Same-Day Crown Right for You?
Same-day crowns are appropriate for most situations requiring a crown, but there are certain cases where traditional crowns might be recommended:
- When the margins of the restoration need to be placed far below the gumline
- For certain bridge restorations involving multiple teeth
- In cases requiring specific materials not available in same-day format
During your consultation, we'll evaluate your specific needs and recommend the most appropriate treatment option for your situation.
Experience the convenience and quality of same-day crown technology for yourself. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can restore your smile in just one visit.
