Restoring a damaged tooth often involves getting a dental crown. If you need to undergo a dental crown procedure, you are most likely weighing your options between same-day crowns vs traditional crowns. Undoubtedly, both solutions restore your tooth’s function and appearance; however, the experience and timeline can be quite different.
So, which option is right for you? Let’s look into the key differences in every aspect to help you make an informed decision
What are Same-Day Crowns?
These crowns are a custom-made dental restoration solution. As its name suggests, these are designed, milled, and placed in a single visit, typically within just a few hours.
These are made using CAD/CAM (computer-aided design and manufacturing) technology. This helps remove the need for messy impressions, temporary crowns, and follow-up appointments.
For same day crown fabrication, a digital scan captures a 3D image of your tooth. It is then used to craft a crown from high-quality ceramic materials. Once milled, a dentist bonds the crown securely to your tooth in just one session.
Same-day crowns are ideal for patients looking for a convenient, efficient solution without compromising aesthetics or durability. However, it is important to note that you may not be suitable if extensive restoration is needed.
What are Traditional Crowns?
On the other hand, traditional crowns are a time-tested dental restoration solution. Most often, it requires two separate visits to complete.
Here is how these two visits look:
- In the first week, your dentist prepares the damaged tooth. They take the physical or digital impressions and place a temporary crown for protection. He then sends the taken impressions to a dental lab for crown fabrication. This process typically takes 1 to 3 weeks.
- Your dentist will ask you to return for the second appointment in the second week once the permanent crown is ready. Your dentist will remove the temporary crown and fix the permanent one in place.
Undoubtedly, it requires more time and additional appointments; however, many people still prefer it for extensive dental restorations. Traditional crowns are ideal for patients needing greater strength and customization.
Pros and Cons: Same Day Crowns vs Traditional Crowns
Here are the pros and cons of same-day crowns vs traditional crowns:
Pro: Same Day Crowns
- You do not need to take additional time off for a second or follow-up appointment.
- It eliminates the risk of temporary crown discomfort or damage.
- It uses CAD/CAM technology to provide highly accurate fits.
- These are made from tooth-colored ceramic. It helps you blend naturally with your smile.
Cons: Same Day Crowns
- Since these are typically made only from ceramic, so not suitable for every patient.
- It may not be ideal for patients with complex damage. Because it is less effective for teeth with breaks below the gum line.
- The technology availability may depend on dentist to dentist.
Pros: Traditional Crowns
- You get access to a variety of materials, including porcelain-fused-to-metal, gold, zirconia, and more.
- It is stronger in some cases, especially for molars and patients who grind their teeth.
- This is ideal for complex cases, such as teeth broken below the gum line.
- This type of crown is time tested and has proven to give long-term success, with many lasting 15+ years if taken care of properly.
Cons: Traditional Crowns
- As traditional crowns require at least two sessions, these appointments are often spread out over several weeks.
- Before placing the permanent crown, a temporary one is placed between visits, which can sometimes cause sensitivity or discomfort.
- There is a risk that the temporary crown may loosen or break before the permanent one is placed.
- The permanent crown typically takes 1 to 3 weeks to be fabricated at an external dental lab.
Which Option is Best for You?
It can be tricky to choose between same-day crowns vs traditional crowns. It depends on various factors, including your oral health, lifestyle, and personal preferences.
You may prefer same-day crowns if:
- You want to get your treatment completed in a single visit.
- You have a busy schedule and do not have time for follow-up appointments.
- You prefer digital impressions over traditional molds.
- Your tooth does not have deep or complex structural damage.
- You prioritize convenience and quick results.
You may prefer traditional crowns if:
- You need a crown made from metal or a material, and not ceramic.
- You grind your teeth or have a strong bite, and need maximum strength.
- Your tooth is broken below the gum line or needs complex reshaping.
- You are not concerned about making two appointments.
If you are still unsure about choosing the right one for you, it is always a good idea to consult an experienced dentist in Shakopee.
Conclusion
Choosing between same-day crowns and traditional crowns isn’t just about how fast you want your tooth fixed. Your dental history, how strong your bite is, and what you want long-term all matter when making the right choice.
Still unsure which crown is right for you? Get in touch with the team at RiverRock Dental, the best dentist in shakopee. Give us a call at 952-445-5556 or visit us at 03 1st Ave E, Shakopee, MN 55379, and we’ll be happy to help you figure it out.
