Same-day Crowns vs. Traditional By Stephen Dowell, DDS on July 06, 2022

When tooth structure has been compromised by trauma, decay, infection, or excessive wear and tear, it is vulnerable to further dental complications, including tooth loss. Dental crowns restore damaged teeth, while protecting and preserving the inner nerves and roots system. 

Individuals who require dental crown treatment may be ideal candidates for either traditional crowns or same-day crowns. Dr. Stephen C. Dowell helps individuals from Minerva, OH, Carrollton, OH, Dover, OH, and surrounding areas consider the differences regarding same-day crowns vs. traditional crowns, and which may be better suited to their unique needs.

Traditional Dental Crowns

Traditional dental crowns are tooth shaped caps that sit over the core of a tooth. The crown replaces tooth structure that has been lost to damage or decay, and acts as a barrier to protect the nerves and roots at the center of the tooth. A traditional dental crown can be composed of many different materials, including metal, porcelain, resin, and ceramics.

Traditional crowns are placed over the span of two dental appointments. At the first dental appointment the tooth is reshaped to remove damaged enamel and any infected material. Molds are taken of the teeth and design specifications are made regarding the size, shape, and color of the crown, as well as the materials it will be fabricated from. These specifications are sent to a dental lab, where the permanent crown is made. A temporary crown is placed until the final restoration is complete. When the permanent dental crown is ready (typically within two to four weeks), the patient returns to the dental office so the crown can be bonded in place.

Same-day Crowns

Same-day crowns take advantage of advanced dental technology to make dental crown treatment even faster and more convenient. Same-day crowns are designed, fabricated, and placed in a single dental appointment. 

As with traditional crowns, Dr. Dowell begins same-day crown treatment by reshaping the tooth to remove damaged and/or infected tooth structure. After the tooth is reshaped a computer scan is performed to create a digital mold of the mouth. Design specifications are entered into the computer system and sent to an in-office milling machine that creates the crown while the patient waits. A crown can typically be fabricated in just under half an hour. When the crown is complete it is bonded to the tooth with a special dental compound. Same-day crown treatment eliminates the need for a temporary dental crown, and a second dental appointment.

Which Is Right For Me?

Most people prefer same-day crowns over traditional crowns because they are more convenient and they allow them to repair their smile in just a single dental appointment. Same-day crowns do not come in as many different materials as traditional crowns, but they are strong and durable, so most of our patients are ideal candidates for these restorations. If patients require a stronger dental crown for whatever reason, we work with reputable dental labs who make traditional crowns using premium dental materials.

Send Us a Message

Dental crowns address dental damage to restore oral health and functions and prevent further dental complications. If you are in need of dental crown treatment and would like to learn more about your options regarding traditional and same-day crowns, Dr. Stephen C. Dowell can answer any questions you may have. To schedule an appointment, send us a message online or call (330) 868-5001.