Advancements in dental technology now allow patients to receive durable, aesthetically pleasing crowns in just one appointment. This streamlined approach simplifies the treatment process, reduces wait times, and significantly enhances the overall patient experience.

What Are Same-Day Crowns and How Are They Made?

Same-day crowns are custom-made dental restorations created and placed within one visit. The procedure begins with the dentist preparing the affected tooth by removing decay or damage. A digital impression is then captured using an intraoral scanner, eliminating the need for traditional goopy molds. 

This digital model is utilized to design the crown with precise specifications, ensuring a perfect fit. The design is sent to an in-office milling machine, which carves the crown from a solid block of ceramic material. 

After milling, the dentist may add finishing touches, such as staining or glazing, to match the crown to the surrounding teeth before cementing it into place. This entire procedure typically takes about two hours start to finish, allowing patients to leave the office with a fully restored tooth.

Benefits of Same-Day Crowns

The adoption of same-day crowns offers numerous advantages over traditional crown procedures:

• Faster Results: Traditional crowns often require multiple visits over several weeks, including the placement of temporary crowns while waiting for the permanent one to be fabricated in an off-site lab. In contrast, same-day crowns are completed in a single visit, saving time for both the patient and the dentist.
• No Temporary Crowns: The immediate placement of the permanent crown eliminates the need for temporary restorations, which can be less smooth and are easy to chip or dislodge. 
• Precise Fit: Digital impressions and computer-aided design ensure a highly accurate fit, reducing the likelihood of adjustments and enhancing the crown’s longevity.
• Aesthetic Appeal: The use of high-quality ceramic materials allows for a natural appearance that blends seamlessly with existing teeth.
• Durability: CEREC crowns are known for their strength and durability, often matching or exceeding that of traditional crowns.
• No second visit so no second round of numbing!

Ideal Candidates for Same-Day Crowns

Same-day crowns are suitable for many patients, particularly those who:

• Require Restoration of Damaged or Decayed Teeth: Patients with teeth that are broken, cracked, chipped, or extensively decayed can benefit from the immediate protection and restoration provided by same-day crowns.
• Have Busy Schedules: Individuals seeking to minimize time away from work or personal commitments will appreciate the efficiency of a single-visit procedure.
• Prefer to Avoid Temporary Crowns: Those who find temporary crowns uncomfortable or inconvenient will benefit from the immediate placement of the permanent crown.

However, same-day crowns may not be suitable for:

• Complex Cases: Teeth with extensive damage, alignment issues, or those requiring significant structural support may be better served by traditional crowns.
• Patients with Bruxism: Individuals who grind their teeth may need to discuss material options with their dentist, as certain materials used in same-day crowns may not be ideal for withstanding the forces of grinding.

A thorough consultation with a dental professional is essential to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on individual needs and oral health status.

The Role of CEREC Technology in Same-Day Crowns

CEREC technology has been instrumental in making same-day crowns a viable option. By integrating digital imaging, computer-aided design (CAD), and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), CEREC systems streamline the restoration process. The digital workflow enhances accuracy and efficiency, allowing for the creation of restorations that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The convenience of this technology has led to its widespread adoption, with over 30 million tooth restorations fabricated using CEREC CAD/CAM technology.

A Modern Solution for Restoring Your Smile

Same-day crowns are revolutionizing restorative dentistry by combining convenience, precision, and long-lasting results. By utilizing cutting-edge technologies like CEREC, patients can achieve durable, natural-looking crowns in just one visit, eliminating the hassle of multiple appointments and temporary restorations. This innovation not only saves time but also enhances the patient experience, making it a preferred choice for busy individuals seeking quality care.

If you’re considering restoring a damaged or broken tooth or improving your dental health, same-day crowns offer an efficient and effective solution. 

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Gesica Horn to explore how this advanced treatment can fit your unique needs. With her expertise and commitment to personalized care, achieving a healthier, more confident smile has never been easier.