Dental crowns have been the go-to method for restoring a damaged or decayed tooth for decades. Today, new technology has created the next evolution in dental crown treatment: same-day crowns. Unlike traditional crowns, which can require multiple appointments and a wait of several weeks, same-day crowns allow for the entire process to be completed in one visit. If you’re curious about how a same-day crown works and how long one takes to make, continue reading.
What’s The Difference?
Same-day crowns are the same as traditional ones in every way. The only differences are the time it takes to make them and the method in which they’re made. Same-day crowns are milled using a special machine and software in your dentist’s office.
From start to finish, the entire process can be over in around two hours. This makes them ideal for patients who have busy schedules and want to avoid multiple dental appointments.
How Do Same-Day Crowns Work?
The process of creating and placing a same-day crown typically takes about two to three hours, from start to finish. Here’s how it works:
- Initial Preparation: Just like with a traditional crown, your dentist will prepare the affected tooth by removing any decay and reshaping it into a “post.” This step is vital to preserve the structure of your tooth and allow your crown to sit comfortably and stay sturdy.
- Digital Scanning: After the tooth is prepared, your dentist will use a digital scanner to capture a 3D image of the prepared tooth. This eliminates the messy and often unpleasant traditional methods that use a putty-like material.
- Design and Milling: Once the digital scan is complete, the data is sent to an in-office milling machine. The machine then uses this information to craft the crown from a block of ceramic material. This process takes around 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the complexity of the restoration.
- Placement: Once the crown is ready, your dentist will ensure it fits properly and make any necessary adjustments. After that, the crown is bonded to your tooth with dental cement, and you’re done!
The efficiency of same-day crowns makes them an excellent choice for patients looking for quick and reliable dental restoration. This advanced process saves time while still delivering a high-quality result that will make your smile shine.
About the Practice
If you need a fully restored tooth and fast, our dental experts at Longmont Complete Dentistry have the technology to help. We can create a crown the same day you walk into the office using durable ceramic materials for a beautiful, natural-looking restoration. If you’re ready to rejuvenate your smile with us, call (303) 772-7000 to schedule your consultation. You can also visit our website to explore other treatments and services.