Same Day Crowns

Same-Day Dental Crowns: Restoring Your Smile in a Single Visit

Dental crowns are a common restorative dental treatment used to repair damaged or weakened teeth. Traditionally, getting a crown required multiple appointments: one for impressions and preparation, and another a week or two later for the final crown placement. However, advancements in dental technology have made it possible to receive a high-quality, custom-made crown in a single visit with in-office crown fabrication.

What are In-Office Dental Crowns?

In-office crowns, also known as same-day crowns or CEREC crowns (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics), are designed, fabricated, and placed in your dentist's office during a single appointment. This is achieved using advanced computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology. Instead of sending impressions to a dental lab, your dentist uses a digital scanner to capture detailed images of your teeth. This digital impression is then used to design and mill your crown while you wait.

How the Process Works:

1. Your dentist will examine your tooth and determine if a crown is the appropriate treatment. If so, the tooth will be prepared by removing any decay or damaged areas and shaping it to accommodate the crown.
2. Instead of traditional messy impressions, a digital scanner captures precise 3D images of your prepared tooth, adjacent teeth, and bite.
3. The digital impression is loaded into CAD software, where your dentist designs the crown, taking into account the shape, size, and color of your surrounding teeth to ensure a natural look.
4. The design is then sent to a milling machine located in the dental office. This machine uses a block of dental ceramic or other material to precisely carve the crown according to the design.
5. Once the crown is milled, your dentist will check the fit and make any necessary adjustments. The crown is then bonded to your tooth using dental cement.

Benefits of In-Office Crowns:

In-office crowns offer a multitude of benefits, starting with the unparalleled convenience of single-visit treatment, eliminating the need for multiple appointments and saving you valuable time. This also means you can skip the discomfort and potential issues associated with temporary crowns, which are necessary with traditional crown procedures. Thanks to digital impressions and CAD/CAM technology, in-office crowns provide a precise fit, ensuring optimal comfort and function. The use of high-quality materials ensures a natural appearance that closely mimics your existing teeth, with the added benefit of shade customization for a seamless match. Finally, you can leave the dental office with your permanent crown in place, restoring your smile and chewing function immediately.

Materials Used for In-Office Crowns:

In-office crowns can be made from various materials. Dental ceramic (porcelain) crowns are a popular choice for their natural appearance and durability. Zirconia is a very strong and durable ceramic material that is often used for posterior (back) teeth. Composite resin is a less expensive option but may not be as durable as ceramic or zirconia.

Is an In-Office Crown Right for Me?

In-office crowns are a suitable option for many patients needing a crown. Your dentist will determine if you are a candidate based on your individual needs and the condition of your tooth.

Cost of In-Office Crowns:

The cost of in-office crowns can vary depending on the material used, the complexity of the case, and your location. It's essential to discuss the cost with your dentist and explore available financing options.

Maintaining Your In-Office Crown:

Proper care is essential to ensure the longevity of your in-office crown. This includes:

1. Brushing and flossing regularly.
2. Avoiding chewing on hard objects.
3. Scheduling regular dental check-ups.

Conclusion:

In-office dental crowns offer a convenient and efficient way to restore damaged teeth and improve your smile. With advanced technology and high-quality materials, you can achieve a natural-looking and functional crown in a single visit, saving you time and improving your overall dental experience. If you think you might need a crown, talk to your dentist to see if a same-day crown is the right solution for you.