If you need a dental crown, you may be imagining multiple appointments, temporary restorations, and weeks of waiting for your permanent crown to arrive. Thankfully, modern dental technology has made the process much more convenient. With same-day crown technology, your dentist can design, create, and place a custom dental crown during a single visit.
So, how long does the process actually take? While the exact timeframe varies depending on your tooth and treatment needs, making and placing a same-day crown typically takes a few hours. That means you may be able to walk into your appointment with a damaged or weakened tooth and leave with a fully restored smile the same day.
What Is a Same-Day Crown?
A same-day crown is a custom dental crown created in the dental office using advanced computer-aided design and manufacturing technology. CEREC is one system that allows dentists to digitally scan your tooth, design your restoration, and mill it from a ceramic block right in the office.
Traditional crowns generally require your dentist to take an impression and send it to an outside dental laboratory. You may then need to wear a temporary crown while you wait for your permanent restoration to be completed. Same-day technology streamlines these steps.
How Long Does the Process Take?
The entire appointment commonly takes several hours, although your specific treatment time can be shorter or longer.
First, your dentist prepares the tooth receiving the crown. This involves removing damaged or decayed portions of the tooth and shaping it so the crown can fit securely.
Next, a digital scan creates a detailed image of your prepared tooth and surrounding teeth. Unlike traditional impressions, digital scanning doesn’t require a tray filled with impression material sitting in your mouth.
Your dentist then uses specialized software to design your crown. The design is based on the shape and size of your tooth, your bite, and the appearance of the surrounding teeth.
Once the design is complete, a milling machine creates the crown from a ceramic block. The restoration may then be polished, adjusted, or glazed to achieve the desired appearance. Your dentist will check the fit and bite before bonding the crown securely to your tooth.
What Can Affect the Treatment Time?
Although same-day crowns are designed for efficiency, your appointment may take longer depending on your individual circumstances.
For example, a tooth that requires extensive preparation may need additional treatment before the crown can be placed. Your dentist also needs to make sure the restoration fits properly and functions comfortably with your natural bite.
The milling and finishing process can also vary depending on the restoration and technology being used. Your dentist will be able to provide a more specific estimate after examining your tooth.
Are Same-Day Crowns Really Completed in One Visit?
In many cases, yes! One of the biggest advantages of CEREC and other same-day crown systems is that they can eliminate the need for a separate appointment to place a laboratory-made permanent crown.
However, not every patient or situation is appropriate for a same-day crown. Your dentist will consider factors such as the condition of your tooth, the location of the restoration, and your overall treatment needs when determining whether this approach is suitable.
What Happens After Your Crown Is Placed?
Once your crown is bonded into place, you can generally return to your normal routine according to your dentist’s instructions. You may experience some temporary sensitivity or tenderness, particularly if your tooth required significant preparation.
Your new crown should be cared for much like your natural teeth. Brush twice a day, clean between your teeth, and continue attending regular dental appointments so your dentist can monitor your restoration and overall oral health.
Same-day crown technology can turn a traditionally multi-appointment restoration into a convenient, streamlined experience.
About the Practice
Longmont Complete Dentistry combines comprehensive dental care with modern technology designed to make treatment more convenient. The team offers CEREC same-day crowns for patients who need a durable, custom restoration without the traditional wait associated with laboratory-made crowns. Patients can receive personalized care while taking advantage of advanced tools that help streamline the restorative process.
Call us at (303) 772-7000 or schedule your appointment online.