New technology in dentistry has done so much for the industry over the years. Now, dental services have become more accessible so everyone can receive preventive care and cosmetic procedures. One of these technological advancements is same-day crowns, which change a patient’s life in just a day. What is a same-day crown, and why should you consider getting one?

An Overview of Dental Crowns

Before the ceramic, metal, and porcelain dental crowns we know today came about, other forms of “dental crowns” are said to go back centuries. In 700 BC, the ancient Italian civilization Etruscans used gold for dental crowns and bridges. Skeletons with gold caps and tooth replacements dating back to the 14th or 15th century were found in the Philippines, with evidence suggesting that they symbolized wealth and power.

Europeans started using modern dental practices in the 1400s and there have been many advancements over the last few hundred years. The industry saw its first modern dental crown invented by Dr. Charles Land in 1903.

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over a patient’s unhealthy tooth. It covers the old tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. It also improves how the treated tooth looks!

There are different types of crowns available:

• Stainless Steel
• Metal
• Porcelain Fused to Metal
• All Resin
• All Ceramic or All Porcelain

Traditional Crown Process

Examination and Preparation

A patient goes for a dental visit to check the condition of their teeth. There will be several X-rays taken to check the roots and surrounding bone. If there is decay, the dentist will remove this first. In some cases, patients have to go through root canal treatment.

The next step is to prepare the tooth for the crown. This step involves reshaping, cleaning, and polishing the tooth, so the crown fits over it properly. The dentist also makes an impression of the tooth with a paste, putty, or digital scanner. The paste or putty is used to make a mold of the affected teeth.

The mold, scan, or digital impression is then sent to a dental laboratory and used to manufacture the dental crown. Dental technology also allows for the creation of temporary crowns as patients wait for their permanent new crown.

Installation

After two or three weeks, the patient goes for a second appointment at the dentist’s office to finally receive the permanent crown. The dentist will remove the temporary crown and cement the new crown in place, ensuring the patient’s comfort and bite.

What Is a Same-Day Crown?

Traditional dental crowns have been around for generations and have helped many people. However, same-day crowns are growing in popularity due to their many benefits.

Same-day dental crowns are dental crowns that get installed in just one appointment, on the day of examination and preparation. Thanks to CEREC technology (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramic), a patient doesn’t need to go through multiple appointments for restoration!

The technology eliminates the need for temporary crowns and waiting periods, allowing dentists to design, manufacture, and install a crown in a single visit.

How Is a Same-Day Dental Crown Made?

CEREC crowns are designed and created with CAD CAM technology (computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing). The process involves taking 3D images of the patient’s teeth and using them to make a crown that fits perfectly.

These digital impressions are sent to an on-site milling machine, where the crown is generated. As soon as the same-day dental crown is ready, the dentist can install it over the natural tooth. The entire treatment process happens in just a few hours.

Like traditional crowns, a new crown made by CAD CAM technology does the following:

• Protects weak teeth
• Restores a broken tooth
• Covers and supports teeth with large fillings
• Holds dental bridges in place
• Covers discolored teeth
• Covers dental implants

A CEREC crown can also be a cosmetic modification meant to improve the appearance of a tooth. Regardless of the reason for getting them, same-day dental crowns can be the best choice for many patients.

Why Opt for Same-Day Crowns?

A same-day crown is an excellent option for many reasons. The most notable advantages include the following:

Convenience

Not all patients have the luxury of time. With their hectic schedules and busy lives, waiting two to three weeks and having to go to multiple appointments to get traditional crowns can be too much. A same-day dental crown provides the convenience and comfort of getting a new crown in just one appointment!

The CAD CAM technology completes all steps in the entire process in one dental visit, from checking a damaged tooth and choosing a color match to getting the new crown from the milling machine and cementing it to the old tooth. Same-day crown services save time and effort.

No Need for a Temporary Crown

A temporary crown provides temporary protection and structure for damaged teeth while you wait for your permanent crown. Generally, a temporary crown is helpful, but it can be uncomfortable and unreliable because its purpose is just that – temporary. Fortunately, one-visit crowns eliminate the need for temporaries and provide protection immediately.

Less Dental Work

Patients and dentists go through less drilling and reshaping procedures with same-day crowns. CEREC crowns are designed to fit over the existing tooth structure, meaning less work than a traditional crown. The process is generally less messy, less painful, and more efficient!

Durability

Technology has made it possible to create strong, durable dental crowns in just a short time. With proper care and maintenance, patients can use their same-day crowns for years!

Low Maintenance

Ultimately, same-day crowns require the same care and maintenance as traditional crowns. Regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleaning are essential for keeping all crowns in their best shape.

Get Your Same-Day Crowns From General & Cosmetic Dentistry of Tampa

If you could regain your unique smile in a day, why wait weeks? Same-day crowns are an excellent choice for those who need a quick and reliable solution! At General & Cosmetic Dentistry of Tampa, you can trust us to provide the best same-day crowns available.

Our team of professionals is dedicated to having your smile fully restored and fully functional from the first appointment you have with us. Like you, we want nothing less than the best for your oral health and overall well-being. Call our office today at 813-370-1014 (Tampa) or 813-331-0364 (South Tampa) or schedule an appointment online to get your same-day smile!