For generations, the dental industry has been a stalwart of lasting transformations. However, in recent years, a technological leap has taken the concept of transformation even further. With same day crowns, dentistry has transitioned from a time-consuming multi-appointment process to a single, streamlined treatment that provides immediate results. Welcome to the revolution that’s providing instant dental transformations, better known as same day crowns.

Understanding Same Day Crowns

In traditional dentistry, the process of receiving a crown (the cap that covers a tooth for restorative or cosmetic reasons) usually involves multiple visits to the dentist – the initial visit for examination and preparation, and the second for the fitting of the permanent crown. On the contrary, same day crowns, also referred to as chairside crowns or CEREC crowns (CEramic REConstruction), employ 3D scanning, computer-aided design (CAD), and milling machines to craft a personalized, tooth-colored crown in as little as a single visit.

The Process in Detail

When you opt for a same day crown, your experience will involve several precise steps:

• Consultation and Planning: The dentist assesses your oral health and formulates a plan for your same day crown procedure.
• Preparation: We prep the tooth receiving the crown by removing any decay and shaping it for the crown.
• Digital Impression: Instead of traditional putty impressions, we will take a digital scan of your tooth with a small intraoral camera.
• Design: The scanned image is converted into a 3D model using specialized software. The dentist customizes the shape and size of the crown to ensure a perfect fit.
• Milling: The milling unit carves the crown out of a solid block of ceramic material that matches your tooth shade.
• Placement and Bonding: Once milled, the crown is adjusted and bonded to your tooth, providing an instant, custom fit and a natural look.

The Advantages of Same Day Crowns

Many advantages have propelled same day crowns to the forefront of modern dentistry:

Time-Efficient

Gone are the days of waiting weeks with a temporary crown. Same day crowns offer a time-saving solution, completing the entire process, from diagnosis to placement, in one appointment that typically lasts a couple of hours.

Comfort and Convenience

The digital process eliminates the need for messy impressions, while the single-visit nature of the procedure means less time off work and fewer interruptions to your daily routine.

Predictable and Precise

CAD/CAM technology allows for highly accurate restorations, providing better marginal fit and longevity for the crown compared to traditional methods.

Aesthetic and Functional

Same day crowns are made to match your natural teeth, offering both aesthetic appeal and the functionality that previously required multiple dental visits to achieve.

CEREC Technology – The Engine Behind Same Day Crowns

The cornerstone of same day crowns is the proprietary CEREC technology, developed in the 1980s. It has evolved over the decades and is considered the gold standard for single-visit restorations.

The Technology at Work

CEREC utilizes a combination of state-of-the-art equipment and materials to create durable, natural-looking crowns. The key components include the intraoral scanner for digital impressions, the CAD software to design the crown, and the on-site milling unit to create the final product.

The Impact on Patient Care

CEREC technology isn’t just about expediting the crown creation process. It’s also about improving the patient experience. Patients can now receive high-quality, permanent restorations without having to wait, making it a game-changer for those with time constraints or dental anxiety.

Are Same Day Crowns Right for You?

The criteria for determining whether same day crowns are suitable are similar to those for traditional crowns. Factors such as the health of your natural tooth, your oral hygiene, and personal preferences guide the decision-making process.

Common Indications for Same Day Crowns

• Damaged Teeth: Teeth with extensive decay, large fillings, or cracks that compromise the tooth’s structure.
• Root Canal Treated Teeth: After a root canal, we often recommend a crown to protect the structurally weak tooth.
• Cosmetic Improvements: For misshapen or discolored teeth in need of aesthetic improvement.

Make an Appointment with Mountain Aire Dentistry

At Mountain Aire Dentistry, we pride ourselves on staying at the forefront of dental technology to provide our patients with the best possible care. Our team is highly experienced in same day crown procedures and can help determine if they are right for you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and experience the immediate smile revolution for yourself!