Are Same-Day Dental Crowns Right for You?

Posted on: 11 August 2017

If you have a tooth that is chipped, cracked or otherwise severely damaged, you might want to have it covered with a dental crown. A crown, or cap, is a type of covering that is put over a tooth and glued into place. Getting crowns is a very common dental procedure, and these crowns are typically not noticeable, so friends and family won't realize that you've gotten this procedure done.

While most crowns require more than one visit, some crowns can be made and applied in one visit. Note a few differences between same-day dental crowns and more traditional crowns, and then you can decide if this procedure is right for you.

Technology used

To create a crown, a dentist needs to make an impression of your mouth, and also note the shape and size of your teeth. This is to ensure the crown is moulded and formed to be a perfect fit in your mouth. This is part of the reason why traditional crowns require more than one visit; your dentist would take the impression needed during that first visit, and then take the time needed to shape and form the crown itself. You would come in for your second appointment when the crown is prepared, and have it applied.

Dentists who offer same-day crowns usually use an advanced computer imaging program when taking that impression of your mouth and teeth. This makes the process faster, and this computer imaging can also make it easier for the dentist to shape your crown, so it can be done before you leave their office.

Material used

Since same-day crowns need to be shaped and formed somewhat quickly, they're typically made out of ceramic, which is easier to shape than other materials used for crowns. Ceramic is not necessarily as strong as these other materials, but they're still very durable and should last for many years without suffering damage.

When to choose same day crowns

The convenience of same-day crowns is an obvious reason to choose these over traditional crowns, but note that they can be the best choice for severely damaged or decayed teeth. Leaving those teeth uncovered, even for a short time, can mean further damage to all your teeth, and the potential for an oral infection. A crown can also reduce the risk of tooth loss, and also cover sensitive gums. If you've had an oral injury or have put off having an infected or damaged tooth treated, a same-day crown can be the best choice for protecting your teeth and gums.

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