Dental crowns are tiny caps often used to restore a tooth following a root canal. Their role is to make the damaged tooth functional again as well as to protect it.
The great thing about dentistry nowadays is that you can get a tooth cleaned and restored in just one appointment. Yes, that means that the dental crown will be ready the same day too.
But, are same-day crowns as good as traditional ones?
Here's what you need to know.
How Do Same-Day Crowns Work?
Same-day crowns have revolutionized restorative dentistry by drastically reducing the time it takes to design, manufacture, and place a dental crown. All this is possible due to CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing) technology.
Here's what to expect if you are opting for same-day crowns.
- After the Foothill Ranch dentist has cleaned and prepared the tooth for the crown, they will take a digital scan of your mouth using a special camera.
- Then, the dentist will use special CAD software to design the crown. The software can create a highly accurate 3D model of your tooth, which allows the dentist to design a crown that fits perfectly.
- Once the crown is designed, the dentist uses a milling machine to manufacture the crown out of a block of ceramic or composite resin. The fabrication process takes just a few minutes.
- Once the crown is ready, the dentist will make sure it fits your mouth. If everything is right, the dentist will polish and bond the crown and make any necessary adjustments.
But, Are Same-Day Crowns As Good As Traditional Ones?
The primary difference between them is the method and time of fabrication. Traditional crowns are made in a lab, based on an impression of your tooth, and usually take about two weeks to be completed and require two dentist appointments. Same-day crowns, on the other hand, are made in-office and can be done in a single visit.
Both types of crowns are made of quality material. Same-day crowns are usually made of ceramic while traditional ones can use a variety of materials, such as porcelain, porcelain and metal alloys, gold, and so on. Some of these materials are sturdiest and might be better suited for back teeth that require stronger support.
So, which one is better?
Both can be excellent restorative solutions and the choice depends on numerous factors like your oral needs, preferences, time, and budget.
Not Sure What to Choose? We Can Help!
Not sure if same-day crowns are the right solution for you? Dr. Sarno from Foothill Modern Dental can give personalized advice and tips based on your specific needs.
Get in touch with us now to book your appointment.