Imagine walking into your dentist’s office one day with a damaged tooth, and walking out the same day with a fully restored smile—that’s what you can expect from same-day crowns.
Unlike traditional crowns that require multiple visits and a lengthy waiting period, same-day crowns offer a quick and efficient experience. Your dentist can perform a dental exam to determine if same-day crowns are the right dental restoration for your needs.
Technology Behind CEREC Same-Day Crowns
The magic behind same-day crowns lies in advanced CAD/CAM (Computer-aided Design/ Manufacturing) technology, specifically CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics). This cutting-edge technology allows dentists to design, create, and place crowns in a single appointment.
How CEREC Same-Day Crowns Work
First, your dentist will take a digital impression of your tooth using a special scanner. This process eliminates the need for messy, uncomfortable molds. The digital impression is then used to create a 3D model of your tooth.
Next, CEREC software designs a custom crown that fits your tooth perfectly. Finally, the crown is milled from a block of high-quality ceramic material right in the dentist’s office. The entire process takes just a few hours, allowing you to leave with a brand-new crown on the same day.
The Benefits of Same-Day Crowns
One of the most significant advantages of same-day crowns is convenience. Traditional crowns require at least two visits to the dentist and a waiting period of several weeks while the crown is fabricated in a dental lab. With same-day crowns, you can complete the entire process in a single visit, saving you time and reducing the need for multiple dental appointments.
Another benefit of same-day crowns is comfort. The digital impression process is much more comfortable than traditional moulds, and the precise fit of the crown reduces the risk of complications.
Additionally, same-day crowns are made from durable ceramic materials that closely mimic the appearance and function of natural teeth. This means that you can enjoy a beautiful, natural-looking smile without worrying about the longevity of your tooth restoration.
Efficiency is another key benefit of same-day crowns. Because the entire process is completed in one visit, you can avoid the hassle of temporary crowns and the potential for additional dental issues that can arise during the waiting period. This streamlined approach allows for a quicker return to normal activities and less overall disruption to your daily life.
What to Expect During the Procedure
When you arrive for your same-day crown appointment, your dentist will begin by preparing your tooth. A crown or cap is an artificial tooth that covers a damaged or decayed natural tooth or an implant.
During a crown procedure, your dentist removes any decay or damaged portions and shapes the tooth for a proper fit for the crown. Don’t worry; this step is performed under local anesthesia to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure.
Next, your dentist will take a digital impression of your tooth using a specialized scanner. This process is quick and painless and provides a highly accurate 3D model of your tooth. The digital impression is then sent to the CEREC software, which designs your custom crown.
Once the design is complete, the crown is milled from a block of high-quality ceramic material using the CEREC machine. This step usually takes about 15 minutes. After the crown is fabricated, your dentist will check the fit and make necessary adjustments.
Once the fit is perfect, the crown is bonded to your tooth using a strong dental adhesive. Finally, your dentist will polish the crown to match the rest of your teeth, leaving you with a seamless, natural-looking restoration.
Aftercare & Expectations for Same-Day Crowns
Caring for your same-day crown is essential both for its longevity and for maintaining your own oral health. Just like natural teeth, crowns require regular brushing and flossing to prevent plaque buildup and reduce the risk of gum disease.
Your dentist may also recommend using a fluoride rinse to strengthen the tooth structure and protect against decay. It’s important to avoid chewing on hard objects, such as ice or pens, as this can damage the crown. Additionally, if you grind your teeth at night, your dentist may suggest wearing a nightguard to protect both your crown and your natural teeth from excessive wear.
With proper care, same-day crowns can last up to 10 years. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are crucial to monitor the condition of your crown and address any potential issues early on. By following your dentist’s recommendations and maintaining good oral hygiene, you can enjoy the benefits of your same-day crown for many years.
Restoring Your Smile & Oral Health
Same-day crowns offer a convenient, comfortable, and efficient solution for dental restoration. By leveraging advanced CEREC technology, dentists can create and place custom crowns in a single appointment, saving you time and reducing the need for multiple visits.
With their natural appearance and durability, same-day crowns provide a lasting solution that enhances your smile and overall oral health. If you’re considering a dental restoration, book an appointment with Shin Dentistry to determine if it’s the right option for you.
