Dental technology has come a long way, offering faster, more efficient solutions for common procedures. One of the most impressive innovations is the same-day crown. Patients who’ve experienced the long process of getting traditional crowns often wonder: Can same-day crowns really deliver the same quality? Let’s explore the pros and cons of both options and help you decide what’s right for your smile.
What Are Same-Day Crowns?
Same-day crowns, also known as CEREC crowns (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics), are custom dental crowns made and placed in a single visit. Unlike traditional crowns that require multiple appointments, same-day crowns use computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology to design, create, and bond the crown within hours.
Traditional Crowns: The Classic Method
Traditional crowns have been a go-to solution for decades. They usually involve:
- Two dental visits
- Temporary crowns
- External dental lab work
- Around 2-3 weeks turnaround time
The Process: Same-Day vs. Traditional
Same-Day Crowns Process
- Digital Impressions: No more sticky mould trays—your dentist uses a digital scanner.
- Design: The crown is the office.
- Milling: A milling machine carves the crown from a ceramic block.
- Placement: The crown is placed and bonded on the same day.
Traditional Crowns Process
- Impressions: Physical moulds are taken.
- Temporary Crown: Placed to protect the tooth while you wait.
- Lab Work: The crown is made in a dental lab.
- Second Visit: The permanent crown is placed.
Durability and Longevity
Traditional crowns are known for their strength, especially when made with metal or porcelain-fused-to-metal. They typically last between 10 to 15 years, sometimes longer with proper care.
Same-day crowns are usually crafted from high-quality ceramic, offering good durability. However, they may not match the longevity of traditional crowns made from stronger materials. That said, with excellent oral hygiene, same-day crowns can also last a decade or more.
Fit and Comfort
A major concern for many is the fit and comfort of the crown.
Same-Day Crowns
Thanks to digital impressions and precise milling, same-day crowns often fit better and more comfortably than traditional ones. There’s less room for human error during the impression phase, which can lead to a better bite and alignment.
Traditional Crowns
Traditional crowns rely on physical impressions, which can be slightly less accurate. However, experienced lab technicians can still craft highly precise crowns. The key here is the skill of both the dentist and the lab team.
Material Options
Same-day crowns are typically made from ceramic. This material looks natural and is biocompatible, but may not be as strong as metal or layered porcelain options.
Traditional crowns offer a wider range of materials:
- Gold or metal alloys: Extremely durable
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal: Natural-looking and strong
- All-porcelain or all-ceramic: Great aesthetics, suitable for front teeth
- Resin: Less expensive but not very durable
Aesthetic Appeal
Both crown types can offer excellent aesthetics, especially when made of ceramic or porcelain.
Same-Day Crowns
They blend well with natural teeth and are colour-matched on the spot. Since there’s no waiting period, adjustments can be made immediately.
Traditional Crowns
The lab has more time and tools to perfect shade, translucency, and shape. For highly visible teeth, this can sometimes produce a more natural look.
Cost Considerations
You might think same-day crowns cost more due to the technology involved. However, because they eliminate lab fees and multiple appointments, their total cost can be comparable—or even lower—than traditional crowns in some cases.
Insurance coverage may differ between the two, so it’s best to check with your provider beforehand.
Convenience and Time-Saving
This is where same-day crowns truly shine.
- No second appointment
- No temporary crowns
- No waiting weeks for lab work
Risk of Complications
Same-Day Crowns
There’s less risk of temporary crowns falling off or discomfort between visits. But they require specialized equipment and a skilled practitioner.
Traditional Crowns
While generally low-risk, temporary crowns can come loose or feel uncomfortable. Additional appointments also mean more potential for scheduling conflicts or delays.
Who Should Choose Same-Day Crowns?
Same-day crowns are ideal if:
- You need quick restoration
- You value convenience
- Your dental issue isn’t complex.
- You prefer digital impressions.
They’re less suitable for patients needing crowns made from metal or those with unusual dental anatomy requiring intricate customization.
Who Should Opt for Traditional Crowns?
Traditional crowns might be the better choice if:
- You need a very strong material like metal
- Your case involves a complex bite or spacing issue.
- You want lab-level customization for a perfect aesthetic match.
In cases where cosmetic perfection or durability is the top priority, the extra wait may be worth it.
Final Thoughts: Which Is Right for You?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Both same-day and traditional crowns offer their own advantages. It boils down to your dental needs, time availability, material preferences, and cosmetic goals.
Looking for top-tier dental care that fits your schedule? Visit Wedgewood Dental today and discover if same-day crowns are right for you!
Trusted Dentist in Rolla, MO, has to offer, cutting-edge technology with personalized care to give you the smile you deserve.
