Has your dentist told you need a dental crown? Yes? This may bring up many questions, especially when you know there are many ways to get it done.
Would you do same day crowns and have everything done in one visit, or would you use traditional crowns, which have been won over through the decades?
If you’re confused about Same Day Crowns vs. Traditional Crowns, this guide is designed to answer exactly and help you make an informed decision with confidence – especially if you’re consulting a dental specialist in Etobicoke.
Understanding Dental Crowns and Why They’re Needed
A dental crown is simply a protective cover that is put on a damaged or weakened tooth. It is aimed at reinforcing strength, functionality, and appearance and avoiding additional harm.
Crowns are usually prescribed by the dentist in case of:
- Cracked or broken teeth
- Weakened teeth with big fillings
- Post-root canal treatment of teeth
- Teeth that are worn out or discoloured
- Supporting dental bridges
While the goal is the same, the dental crown procedure differs significantly depending on whether you choose same day or traditional crowns.
What Are Same Day Crowns?
Same day crowns also referred to as CEREC crowns, are produced and fitted in one dental session with the use of hi-tech technology. Instead of taking physical press impressions and forward them to the dental lab, dentist uses a digital scanner to capture a sharp 3D visual of your tooth.
This crown is then programmed on a computer and milled on site of a ceramic block of high quality.
The Same Day Dental Crown Process
- Tooth preparation and digital scan.
- Computer aided crowns design.
- On-site grinding of the crown.
- Immediately place and bonding.
The whole process normally occupies a few hours.
What Are Traditional Crowns?
Traditional crowns are more traditional and go through a number of steps which have been relied upon.
Traditional Crown Procedure:
- Tooth preparation and physical impressions.
- Temporal placement of a crown.
- Crown referred to an off-site dentist.
- Crown put on a second visit.
The whole process will take 1-2 weeks, depending on the lab and scheduling by the dentist.
Same Day Crowns vs Traditional Crowns: In-depth Comparison
1. Time and Convenience
The most obvious distinction is time. Same day crowns are done in a single visit, whereas in the case of traditional crowns one has to make several visits.
Same day crowns are effective because they save time for patients with tight schedules:
- Temporary Crowns
- Repeat anesthesia
- Time off work or travel
2. Patient Experience and Comfort
Same day crowns are based on digital scanning which most patients are much more comfortable with as compared to the old-fashioned impression trays that are known to cause patients to gag or feel uncomfortable.
The classical crowns also necessitate the use of a temporary crown which is rather bulky and, in some cases, may loosen or be broken.
3. Appearance and Natural Look
The same day and traditional crowns can both be very natural provided they are made in the right way. Traditional crowns can provide a little more customization to highly cosmetic cases whereas contemporary CEREC crowns are famous for their great colour matching and natural outcomes particularly in the back and side teeth.
4. Strength and Longevity
One issue that always comes up is whether the same day crowns are just as strong as the traditional ones.
The same day crowns are crafted using powerful ceramic substance that is engineered to cope with common chewing and biting requirements. Both forms of crowns could last 10-15 years or more with proper care.
Oral hygiene, alignment of the bite and activities such as grinding are more effective in the increase of longevity than the type of crown.
5. Cost Differences
Same day crown cost can be similar with the traditional crowns. Pricing depends on:
- Tooth location
- Material used
- Insurance coverage
- Dentist’s expertise
Others make slightly higher charges on the convenience of same day crowns and some set the two alternatives at similar prices.
Which Option Is Best for You?
Same day crowns can be the best when you:
- Desire any treatment done on a single occasion.
- Choose digital impressions as opposed to traditional molds.
- Don’t want a temporary crown
- Have moderate tooth damage
Traditional crowns could work when you:
- Severe or complicated tooth damage
- Need specialized materials
- Demands huge cosmetic customization
- Don’t mind multiple visits
Common Questions You May Ask
Are same day crowns superior to the traditional crowns?
Yes, for many patients. The technological development has led to same day crowns being very precise, durable and reliable. Nevertheless, even complex cases can use the traditional lab-made crowns.
What are the prices of same-day crowns/traditional?
Costs are often similar. Advanced equipment could be slightly higher in price, but both same day crowns are usually covered by insurance.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of same day crowns?
Pros:
- One appointment
- No temporary crown
- Faster results
- Painless computer scanning
Cons:
- Limited material choices
- Not ideal for all cases
- In certain clinics, the price of May is a bit higher.
What is the longevity of same-day crowns as opposed to traditional?
Both categories will generally stay between 10 years and 15 years or even more as long as some care is taken. Oral hygiene and habits are more important than the type of crown.
Is it possible to use same-day crowns on any tooth?
Most teeth such as molars, can be done with same day crowns. Special-shaped crowns may be necessary when the teeth are highly damaged or have special cosmetic requirements.
How does same-day and traditional crowns differ?
Same day crowns are modeled and fabricated in one appointment utilizing computerized scans and in store milling. The traditional crowns require impressions, a temporary crown, lab fabrication and a second appointment.
Are same-day crowns natural looking?
Yes. Same day dental crowns are of high quality, colour-matched, and formulated to blend with your natural teeth.
Conclusion
Comparing Same Day Crowns vs. Traditional Crowns, it is no one-size-fits-all answer. The correct option will depend on the condition of your teeth, your lifestyle, finances and your own tastes. In case speed, comfort, and a smaller number of appointments are the primary concerns, same day crowns are a perfect solution.
Traditional crowns could be more appropriate in case of a complicated case or the need of specific materials. The greatest thing to do is to seek the advice of a reputed dental expert in Etobicoke who may assess your case and refer you to the most favourable long-term result.
Regardless of the choice, the dental crowns of these days are created not only to heal your tooth, but also to heal your confidence and your smile.
