For many years, any dental patient who needed a crown was forced to attend multiple appointments – one to get an initial fitting and temporary crown, then at least one more after the permanent crown was created at an off-site facility. But the advent of same-day crowns in recent decades has changed all that, and can now save patients immense time and hassle without sacrificing one ounce of quality.
At Midnight Sun Dental, we’re proud to offer the very best same-day crown services you’ll find around Anchorage, Wasilla, Eagle River, and nearby areas, helping patients remedy dental issues faster while maintaining the same high quality we’re known for. Here are some comparisons of the same-day crown process to traditional crowns, plus some key areas where time is saved, and some of the key pieces of technology that make this possible.
Differences Between Same-Day Crown and Traditional Crown Procedures
For those who are only familiar with the traditional, multi-appointment crown process, the same-day crown procedure may seem too good to be true. However, there are several key differences between the two procedures that allow for a quicker process with same-day crowns:
- Single appointment vs multiple: As the name suggests, same-day crowns only require one appointment, while traditional crowns usually require at least two appointments.
- No need for temporary crown: With same-day crowns, there is no need for a temporary crown to be placed while waiting for the permanent crown to be made. This eliminates the risk of the temporary crown falling off or causing discomfort.
- Quicker turnaround time: With traditional crowns, it can take weeks for the permanent crown to be made and placed. Same-day crowns eliminate this waiting period as the crown is made and placed in one appointment.
- No difference in quality: Despite the quicker turnaround time, there is no compromise in the quality of same-day crowns. They are made using high-quality materials and advanced technology, ensuring a durable and long-lasting restoration.
How Same-Day Crowns Are Made and Applied
Let’s walk through the basic process of how same-day crowns are made and applied all in one appointment:
Initial Scan
Your dentist will take a 3D scan of your mouth using a digital scanner. This scan captures the exact shape and size of your tooth, ensuring a precise fit for the crown.
Designing
Using specialized software, your dentist will design the custom crown based on the scan. They can make any necessary adjustments to ensure proper fit and functionality.
Milling
The design is then sent to an in-office milling machine, which carves out the crown from a block of high-quality ceramic material. This process typically takes around 15 minutes.
Fitting
Once the crown is created, your dentist will check its fit and make any final adjustments as needed. They will then carefully bond the crown to your tooth using dental cement.
Technology Often Used
As we noted above, digital technology is a key part of the same-day crown process. One great example is the CEREC system, which stands for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics. This system uses CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing) technology to create a 3D image of your tooth and design the crown digitally.
The dentist then sends this digital design to an in-office milling machine, which carves out the crown from a block of high-quality ceramic material. This allows for the entire process to be completed in just one visit, without the need for messy impressions or temporary crowns.
In other cases, different forms of technology, such as 3D printing, may be used to create the crown. This not only speeds up the process but also allows for a more precise fit and customized design.
Importance of Working With Quality Same-Day Crown Professionals
If you’re considering getting a same-day crown, it’s important to choose a reputable and experienced dental professional. Same-day crowns require specialized training and knowledge in order to produce high-quality results.
Additionally, working with an established dentist who has experience with same-day crowns can provide peace of mind and assurance that the procedure will be successful. They will also be able to discuss any potential risks or complications beforehand, ensuring that you are fully informed about the process and its outcomes.
At Midnight Sun Dental, our team has years of experience creating and applying same-day crowns for patients across Anchorage, Eagle River, Wasilla, and nearby areas. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule an appointment!