What are same-day dental crowns?
Same-day crowns are permanent dental caps designed, made, and placed in a single visit. Traditionally, you would come in, we would prep your tooth, and you would go home with a temporary crown for two weeks while waiting for the lab to make the final one. Same-day crowns eliminate all of that, so you get to go home with your crown that same day.
How are same-day crowns made?
We use computer-aided design and manufacturing. We have a CEREC scanner and mill. We scan the mouth and design the crown on the computer, then it's sent to the mill. After that, we put it in the oven, and it’s baked. I always compare it to going to a pottery place where you paint a mug or a plate. It’s kind of the same concept.
What material are same-day crowns made of?
Our same-day crowns are made of a high-strength ceramic called porcelain. This is a great option because it's strong enough for both posterior and anterior teeth.
Who is a good candidate for same-day crowns?
Same-day crowns are a really good option for patients who want the crown that day instead of having to come back two weeks later. Anyone needing a crown for a cracked, chipped, or decayed tooth who wants to save time may be a good candidate. It may not be recommended if the damage extends to the gum line or if you have severe bite alignment issues, but otherwise, they’re a great option.
Are same-day crowns precise and durable?
CEREC technology often provides a more precise fit than a traditional mold because it eliminates human error in the impression process. They are highly durable and match the natural look and strength of your teeth.
How long does an appointment take if I am getting a same-day crown?
The appointment typically takes two to three hours, depending on how many crowns you're having done. If you're having two, it could take three hours, but if it's just one, two hours is typical. Dr. Gearin comes in, numbs the area, and preps the tooth.
After that, as I mentioned earlier, it is designed on the computer, sent to the mill, made, and then placed in the oven. All of that takes about 40 minutes, and then the crown has to cool off because, like I mentioned, it’s kind of like going to a pottery place where the oven is really hot—over 1,000°C. Once it cools down, we come in, bond it permanently, check your bite, and then you're all good to go.
How long do same-day crowns last?
They typically last about 10 to 15 years, and sometimes longer with good care. As long as you're brushing and flossing regularly, they can last even longer than that.
What are the tradeoffs of same-day crowns?
The main trade-offs are limited choices. When we do same-day, it can only be ceramic porcelain. If you get it done with the lab, you can choose different materials like gold, but here it's only porcelain. I would say the only disadvantage is that you can't always pick a different material.
Can you get a crown immediately if there is an infection?
If the infection is localized and the tooth is stable enough to support a crown immediately, you can get a crown. That same day, Dr. Gearin will typically determine if it's stable enough for that. Sometimes you have to have a little waiting period, but you also don't want to wait too long because if you're chewing on that, Dr. Gearin always has a good idea of when you should have it done.
At Gearin Aesthetic and General Dentistry, we work really closely with a specialist, and typically our patients go have that done and then get scheduled to come back here.
How can you find out if your dental office offers same-day crowns?
If you're not sure if your dental office offers same-day crowns, you can always give them a call and ask if they do same-day crowns or if they just use the lab.
How can I make an appointment with Gearin Aesthetic and General Dentistry?
You can call us at (702) 710-8847, or schedule below! Our staff would love to talk with you.
What Are Same-day Cerec Crowns?
CEREC same-day crowns are a great way to have a permanent restoration placed without needing to come in for multiple appointments. Same-day crowns are just as durable as lab-made restorations, but they eliminate the need for a second visit. Crowns are essential for covering teeth that have become damaged or compromised. Your crown will last for many years before replacement is necessary.
Why Would Same-day Cerec Crowns Be Needed?
The reason you might need a crown is because a tooth has cracked, fractured or broken. You might even have a tooth that has a large, old filling in it that needs to be replaced. Patients who have recently undergone a root canal will benefit from a crown because the root canaled tooth is more susceptible to breaking. Crowns are used to cover a compromised tooth to restore it to its original shape and size.
Who is a Candidate for Same-day Cerec Crowns?
Most patients are good candidates for same-day CEREC crowns. We will examine your teeth to determine if a crown is necessary and if it is, it is recommended that it be placed as soon as possible. This prevents further damage to the tooth, which could lead to the need for an extraction. If you have recently had a root canal performed, it is important that you have a crown placed before the tooth breaks or cracks.
What Happens During the Procedure to Make and Place Same-day Cerec Crowns?
We begin by numbing the area of your mouth receiving the crown. This is done by using a safe local anesthetic. We then file down the tooth to make room for the new crown. We take digital impressions of your teeth and surrounding gum tissue. These digital impressions are put into our CEREC machine. The machine creates a permanent dental crown for you while you wait in the office. The crown is then placed, adjusted to improve its fit and you'll be ready to go. CEREC crowns are more convenient and just as long-lasting as typical restorations.
If you'd like to learn more about same-day CEREC crowns and how they work, call our office today to speak with one of our trained professionals.