Same Day Crowns

The Same Day Crown Procedure

A dental crown is a custom-made restoration that covers and protects a tooth that has been damaged by decay, weakened by a large filling, or broken. Crowns help restore a tooth’s strength, function, and appearance while preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible.

With same-day crowns, eligible patients can receive a custom, tooth-colored ceramic crown in a single dental appointment. Using digital imaging and in-office technology, your dentist can design, create, and place your crown without the need for a traditional dental impression, a temporary crown, or a second visit in many cases.

Exam and Preparation

First, Dr. Bedoya examines your tooth to determine whether a crown is the most appropriate treatment. Depending on the extent of the damage and the amount of healthy tooth structure remaining, another restoration, such as a filling, may be sufficient.

If a crown is recommended, the tooth is numbed with local anesthesia. Your dentist then removes any decay and weakened tooth structure and carefully prepares the tooth to accommodate the crown.

Digital Impressions

Next, your dentist captures detailed digital images of the prepared tooth using an intraoral scanner. Unlike traditional impressions that require a tray filled with impression material, digital scanning provides a comfortable, efficient way to record the shape of your tooth and the surrounding area.

These images create a precise digital model that your dentist uses to design your custom crown.

Custom Crown Design and Creation

Using specialized dental software, your dentist designs a crown that fits your prepared tooth and complements your natural bite and smile. The design is then sent to an in-office milling machine, which shapes a tooth-colored ceramic block into your restoration.

Once the crown has been created, your dentist checks its fit, shape, and bite, making any necessary adjustments. The crown is then polished and securely bonded to your tooth.

In many cases, the entire process can be completed in a single appointment, allowing you to leave the office with your permanent crown rather than a temporary restoration.

Benefits of Same-Day Crowns

Same-day crowns offer several advantages for eligible patients:

  • Convenience: Complete the crown procedure in one appointment in many cases.
  • No temporary crown: Avoid the need to wear a temporary restoration between visits.
  • Digital impressions: Digital scanning eliminates the need for traditional impression trays in this workflow.
  • Natural appearance: Tooth-colored ceramic materials are designed to blend with your surrounding teeth.
  • Custom fit: Digital design and in-office fabrication allow your dentist to create a restoration tailored to your tooth.
  • Restored function: A properly fitted crown helps protect a weakened tooth and restore comfortable chewing.

Is a Same-Day Crown Right for You?

Same-day crowns can be an excellent option for many patients who need to restore a damaged or weakened tooth. However, the best treatment depends on the condition of your tooth, your bite, and your individual dental needs. Some cases may require additional treatment or a different type of restoration.

Dr. Bedoya will evaluate your tooth, discuss your options, and help determine whether a same-day crown is right for you.

Contact our office today to schedule an appointment and learn more about same-day crowns.