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A dental crown is a popular cosmetic dental procedure designed to restore the appearance and functionality of a damaged tooth. In fact, according to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, more than 15 million Americans already have crowns and many more are placed each year.

There are several reasons your dentist may recommend a crown:

Strengthen a tooth that is weak

The team at Prime Family Dentistry in Stone Ridge specializes in dental crowns. We offer both traditional and same-day crowns. In this article, we’ll explain what you need to know about each one so that you can decide which is right for you.

Same-Day vs. Traditional Crowns: What is the Difference?

Both same-day and traditional crowns serve the same purpose. However, there are some differences between the two. When determining which one is best for you, it’s important to consider these factors.

Timeline

The primary difference between the two is the treatment timeline.

Traditional crowns must be fabricated in a dental lab, which takes several days or weeks and requires at least 2 appointments. During the first appointment, the dentist will perform a comprehensive exam, including X-rays. Then, any additional work, such as root canal treatment, will be done and an impression will be taken of the tooth. The impression will be sent to a dental lab for the fabrication of your crown. If necessary, a temporary crown will be placed to protect the tooth while you are waiting.

During the second visit, the temporary crown will be removed, and the tooth will be cleaned. The dentist will administer local anesthesia and cement the crown to the tooth.

Same-day crowns, on the other hand, can be done in one appointment. The dentist will perform a comprehensive exam and will use an intraoral camera and CAD software to create a 3D image of the tooth. Once the model is created, a CEREC machine will be used to fabricate the crown. Once the crown is ready, the dentist will prep the tooth and place the crown. The entire process takes about an hour.

Cost

The overall costs between the two are similar. Traditional crowns may be made of porcelain or metal and range from around $800 to $3,000+. CEREC crowns are made from durable ceramic, which means they cost around the same as a traditional porcelain crown. Dental insurance typically covers a portion of treatment, whether you choose a same-day or traditional crown. However, same-day crowns are often less expensive because they only require one appointment versus multiple.

Materials/Durability

Same-day crowns are made from ceramic. They are aesthetically-pleasing, but are not as durable as traditional dental crowns. Traditional crowns, on the other hand, can be made from several different materials: porcelain, metal, porcelain-fused-to-metal, or composite resin. Porcelain is the most popular because it looks more natural.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Same-Day Crowns

Same-day crowns offer several benefits and drawbacks

Benefits

If you prefer a more convenient solution, a same-day crown may be the better option for you. This will allow you to complete treatment in one visit instead of having a temporary crown and waiting for a dental lab to fabricate a permanent one.

Another benefit of same-day crowns is comfort. The dentist will use an intraoral camera to create a digital image of the affected tooth instead of using the traditional process for creating an impression. Plus, you will need less anesthesia for crown placement.

Finally, your risk of future tooth decay in the affected tooth is reduced. Traditional crowns require the placement of a temporary crown, which may not fit properly and allow bacteria to get into the tooth.

Drawbacks

One of the primary drawbacks of same-day crowns is their durability. CEREC crowns are made of ceramic, which is not as strong as metal or porcelain.

Another drawback is the appearance. While same-day dental crows fit the teeth well and look natural, it takes some time to find a shade that is aesthetically pleasing. If you are curious about shading, the dentist may be able to allow you to view images of patients with similar crowns so that you know what to expect.

Finally, same-day crowns are not suited for all patients. If the tooth is fractured under the gum line, the dentist may have problems getting a good image of the tooth.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Traditional Crowns

The benefits and drawbacks of traditional crowns are as follows:

Benefits

The primary benefit of traditional dental crowns is the material options. CEREC crowns are made in the office and are only available in ceramic. Traditional crowns, on the other hand, are fabricated in an off-site dental lab, which means there are several options: metal, porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, and more.

Another benefit is that traditional crowns often look more natural than same-day crowns due to the materials, as well as the services of an expert to create a crown that perfectly matches the rest of your teeth.

Drawbacks

One of the primary drawbacks of traditional crowns is the time investment required for treatment. First of all, treatment takes at least 2 appointments, maybe more, depending on your situation. Plus, crown fabrication usually takes a few weeks and, if it’s not right, you’ll have to wait even longer for a replacement.

Another drawback is the temporary crown, which the dentist will place at the end of the first appointment. The purpose of the temporary crown is to protect the tooth while you wait for your permanent one. Unfortunately, the crown is not customized to fit your tooth, so it may allow bacteria to get into the tooth- and it may cause some discomfort.

Same-Day vs. Traditional Crowns: Making the Final Choice

When trying to decide between a same-day or traditional crown, you’ll want to consider your personal needs, your budget, and the time you’re willing and able to invest.

The major advantage of same-day crowns is that the entire process can be completed in one appointment, while traditional crowns require two or more appointments over several weeks or months. In addition, same-day crowns are less invasive and less expensive than traditional crowns.

If you need to get a crown as quickly as possible or you have a dental emergency, a same-day crown may be the best option. However, it’s best to consult with the dentist to determine which one is right for you.

Schedule Your Dental Crown Consultation with Prime Family Dentistry

If you need a dental crown to restore your damaged tooth, schedule your consultation with the team at Prime Family Dentistry in Stone Ridge. We are conveniently located on Pinebrook Road. Our office hours are Monday and Friday from 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM, Thursday from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and Saturday from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Our hours are structured to allow patients who are unable to take time off work to obtain treatment.

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