The process of getting a dental crown used to take weeks. But now there is an option that allows dentists to provide you with a crown in just one day. Same day crowns are just as effective and natural looking as traditional crowns, and there’s no need to wear a temporary crown while you wait for your permanent crown. Here’s how it works.
The Process of Getting a Same Day Crown
Here is the step by step process of preparation and placement of a same day crown.
- Imaging. A scan of your mouth will provide images that the computer uses to create a crown that will match your natural tooth in size, shape, and color. It even provides a computerized image of the final result so you can see what your crown will look like in place.
- Your crown is created. Advanced machinery uses the information from the computer image to create your crown according to the specifications. Same day crowns are made of a composite material that is similar to what is used to fill cavities, only stronger to bear the strength of your bite force.
- Your tooth is prepped. While your crown is being made your tooth will be prepped to receive it. Your mouth will be numbed in the area of the tooth being treated. Then a thin layer of enamel is removed from the existing tooth to make room for the crown.
- The crown is fitted. Once the crown is complete it will be put in place temporarily for a fitting. As long as it fits and you are happy with the way it looks, it will be cemented into place. If not, it can be adjusted to fit better.
- The crown is permanently placed. If you are satisfied with the way your crown looks and feels, it will be permanently placed with dental cement. Your crown will remain in place unless your dentist removes it to replace it with a new crown later on.
How Long Do Same Day Crowns Last?
A same day crown will last an average of 10-15 years, but may last longer if it is well cared for. If you practice good dental hygiene, don’t grind your teeth, and go to the dentist for regular dental cleanings, your crown can last for 20-30 years.
Do I Need to Be Careful About What I Eat?
Yes, it would be a good idea to avoid crunchy foods like nuts and sticky foods like toffee that could damage or dislodge your crown. Never bite or chew on anything that is not food. Don’t use your teeth to open packaging or remove tags.
Will I Have Any Pain After the Procedure?
Most patients don’t have any pain after getting a same day crown. If anything you may have some mild discomfort in the gums and jaw where the crown was placed, which should subside within about 24 hours of your procedure.
What’s the Difference Between a Same Day Crown and a Traditional Crown?
The main difference is the timing of the process. A traditional crown requires one appointment to prep the tooth and take images for creating the crown, then another appointment a few weeks later to place the crown. A temporary crown is worn while you wait for your permanent crown. If the permanent crown doesn’t fit, it has to be sent back to the lab for adjustments and you’ll have to wait another few weeks. A same day crown can be done in one appointment in most cases.
Rosewood Dental Provides Same Day Crowns
The key to providing same day crowns is technology. You need a dentist who has the software and machinery to make dental crowns in the office. Rosewood Dental has the equipment to provide same day crowns for our patients. We offer this service because we know that your time is valuable and you don’t want to spend any more of it in the dentist’s chair than you have to. Get a quality dental crown in just one appointment at Rosewood Dental.
Call 301-515-2466 or contact us today to schedule your appointment.