Candidates for Treatment

A dental crown covers the entire visible portion of a damaged tooth, adding strength and protection. This restoration can also conceal cosmetic imperfections. Your dentist may recommend a dental crown if you:

• Have cracked teeth
• Have chipped teeth or uneven edges
• Have deep discoloration that does not respond to professional teeth whitening
• Have misshapen or disproportionate teeth
• Have severely decayed or damaged teeth
• Have weakened or significantly worn teeth that require added support
• Have an uneven bite as a result of teeth grinding and jaw clenching
• Have undergone root canal therapy

It is important that the remaining tooth structure is sound and stable enough to support a restoration. Should the tooth be unsalvageable, your dentist may recommend extraction and an implant-supported crown.

Unlike a traditional restoration, which typically requires two visits to the office, a same day crown can be designed and crafted in a single appointment.

Same Day Crown Technology

Same day crown fabrication involves the use of CAD/CAM (computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing) technology, such as CEREC®, to deliver a restoration in just one office visit. The accuracy of CAD/CAM technology can improve your overall dental experience, reduce costs, and provide stunning results.

The Treatment Process

If you are a candidate for a same day crown, your dentist can begin by preparing your tooth. This involves removing any damaged tissue, as well as a small amount of enamel, to create sufficient space for the crown. Although the area will be numb, you may elect to receive additional sedation if you are particularly nervous about treatment. After preparing your tooth, your dentist can capture 3-D images of your smile and then immediately upload them to a nearby computer.

Using specialized software, your dentist can create a virtual model of your crown, taking into account the measurements of your smile as well as the shade of your teeth. Once your dentist is satisfied with the overall design, an in-office milling unit can construct your crown from single block of porcelain. This process typically takes about one hour. Once your crown is ready, your dentist can check it against neighboring teeth to ensure it fits comfortably in your bite. If no modifications are needed, the crown will be bonded in place and polished to add the finishing touches.

Benefits of Same Day Restorations

With the advent of same day technology, dentists are able to provide more convenient and efficient care. In addition, patients can enjoy:

• Immediate results: You can experience fully restored dental function and aesthetics in a single appointment.
• Lower treatment costs: Same day crowns reduce the need for temporaries as well as multiple office visits, saving you time and money.
• Realistic aesthetics: Porcelain is an incredibly lifelike material. It mimics the sheen and translucency of enamel. In addition, porcelain feels natural. The dentist will carefully select the shade of porcelain that matches your smile.
• Increased precision: Digital technology ensures more predictable and accurate results.
• More comfort: With 3-D imaging, you can avoid messy traditional impressions.

A same day crown can last as long as a traditional crown with the proper care.

Caring for Your Same Day Crown

To extend the longevity of your crown, you should:

• Avoid biting your nails or chewing on hard objects, such as pen caps
• Avoid using your teeth to open packages
• Wear a mouthguard at night if you suffer from teeth grinding or jaw clenching
• Maintain good oral hygiene, brushing at least twice a day and flossing daily

One of the most important things you can do for your teeth is to schedule biannual checkups at your dentist’s office. During these visits, your dentist can assess your teeth and gums, as well as identify and treat areas of concern.