TL;DR
- With same day crowns, you can get a dental crown in only one visit.
- You do not have to get messy impressions or temporary crowns.
- Advanced technology can create custom crowns in just about 2 hours.
- It is a perfect solution for busy people who cannot make multiple dental appointments.
- It offers strong and natural looking results that last for years.
People live fast-moving lives where finding time for dental appointments can be tough between work, family and everything else. It is especially true about traditional crowns which require two to three separate visits.
However, is it possible to walk into the dentist’s office with a damaged tooth and leave the same day with a permanent crown? Yes, it is possible. It is exactly what same day crowns offer.
What Are Same Day Crowns?
It is a cap, which covers a damaged tooth. Apart from protecting the tooth, it restores its shape and function.
However, traditional crowns took weeks to get. One appointment was required for preparation and then you had to wait while a lab made your crown. Finally, you got it placed in a second appointment.
It all changes with same day crowns. Your dentist uses advanced computer technology for designing, creating and placing your crown in just one visit. Most patients can have the new crown placed in just about two hours.
How Do Same Day Crowns Work?
You would be surprised to know that the process is quite simple.
Your dentist first prepares your tooth. He removes any decay and shapes the tooth for proper crown fit. Next comes the imaging part. Rather than taking a goopy impression of your tooth, your dentist takes 3d images using a small camera. These digital scans are a lot more comfortable compared to traditional impressions.
Using these images, the computer designs your custom crown. Your dentist can adjust the design right on the screen to ensure a perfect fit.
After the design is ready, a milling machine carves your crown. It takes just around 15-20 minutes.
Finally, after placing the crown on your tooth, your dentist makes any necessary adjustments. And then you leave with a permanent crown that is ready to use right away.
Benefits of Same-Day Crowns
Here are some leading benefits of same-day crowns:
Save Time
This is one of the biggest advantages. You do not have to juggle your schedule for multiple visits. Just take time off work once. There are no follow-up appointments either.
For busy professionals and parents, it makes these crowns worth considering.
No Temporary Crowns
If you got traditional crowns, you had to wear a temporary crown until you got the permanent one. The temporary crowns can be uncomfortable as they sometimes fall off or break.
You can skip this step with same-day crowns and get your permanent crown right away.
More Comfortable Process
Digital scans are way better than traditional impressions. You do not have to wait with the impression material in your mouth. The entire process is a lot more comfortable from start to finish.
Natural Appearance
These are made from high-quality ceramic that matches your natural teeth. Your dentist will select a perfect shade that blends with your smile. In most cases, people cannot tell which tooth has a crown.
Strong and Durable
These crowns are also as strong and durable as lab-made crowns. They can last 10-15 years or longer, given proper care.
Are Same-Day Crowns Right for You?
Same-day crowns are perfect for most situations, including:
- Broken or cracked teeth
- Teeth with large fillings needing extra support
- Teeth weakened by root canals
- Severe tooth decay
- Cosmetic improvements
Your dentist will check your mouth and tell you if you are a good candidate.
What to Expect During Your Appointment
Generally, you spend two hours at the dental office during your appointment. You can bring a book or download some podcasts.
The dentist gives you local anesthesia and starts the preparation work once you are comfortable.
As you wait, the actual crown creation happens. In some offices, you can watch the milling machine work through the windows, which can be pretty fascinating.
Your dentist will try the crown in your mouth once it is ready. They check the fit and your bite. Small adjustments might be required at this stage.
The crown is bonded to your tooth once everything looks good. Soon after the anesthesia wears off, you can eat and drink normally.
Finding the Right Dentist
Every dental office does not offer these crowns as the technology needs a significant investment in equipment and training.
Do your research if you are looking for a dentist in Blaine MN offering this service. Look for dental offices with good reviews and modern technology.
You should also ask about their experience with these crowns. How many have they done and can they show examples of their work?
Caring for Your Same Day Crown
Caring for your crown is easy and you must treat them just like your natural teeth.
Apart from brushing twice a day, you should floss daily. Pay special attention to the edge where your crown meets your tooth, as plaque can build up there.
Avoid chewing on ice or hard objects. Do not use your teeth as tools to open packages.
Regularly meet your dentist for checkups and cleanings. Given proper care, your crown can serve you well for many years.
The Bottom Line
If you need dental crowns without the hassle of multiple appointments, same day crowns are an excellent option. With proven and reliable technology, the results look absolutely natural and last for years.
If you need a crown, ask your dentist in Blaine MN if same day crowns will work for you. You might be surprised to learn about how easy the process can be.
While your smile is important, you can protect it without disrupting your life thanks to modern technology.