If you’re thinking about getting a same-day crown, you might be concerned about how long it will last. Traditional crowns are made in a lab. And it can take about two weeks before you receive it. What can you expect for the longevity of a same-day crown? Does reducing the usual two visits to a single visit mean that your restoration won’t last as long?
The Same-Day Crown Process
CEREC is same-day crown technology
The process of fitting you for a same-day crown is much like that of a traditional crown. But same-day crown technology is available in the dental office. And it provides excellent precision.
- Your dentist will taper your tooth to ensure the crown fits over it.
- A handheld scanner is used to make a highly accurate impression of your teeth.
- The impression is transferred to a milling machine to make a precisely fitting crown.
- Your cosmetic dentist will use high-quality dental ceramic to craft your same-day crown.
- Digital technology helps your dentist position the crown with accuracy.
- Advanced cosmetic dentists will thoroughly check the crown for proper bite and fit before bonding it on.
- When your dentist uses expert bonding techniques, it helps the crown withstand the forces of biting and chewing.
How Long Will Your Same-Day Crown Last?
Dental crowns, including same-day crowns, last five to fifteen years. The convenience of a one-visit crown doesn’t mean that it’s cheap in quality. The durability of your restoration will depend on several factors:
- The experience and skill of your dentist with same-day crown technology.
- The quality of ceramic used to mill your crown.
- Proper bonding technique.
- Ensuring your crown is correctly placed in harmony with your bite.
Mistakes or shortcuts in the above factors can put extra stress on your crown and cause it to wear, dislodge, or crack.
What You Can Do to Get Long-Lasting Results
You’ll get the best outcome by selecting a cosmetic dentist who has advanced training and experience in same-day crown technology. You can schedule a consultation with a cosmetic dentist to find out if this treatment is right for your case. Ask a few questions, including:
- How long have you used same-day crown technology?
- How many same-day crowns have you placed?
- Will you show me before-and-after photos of your patients for whom you’ve provided the crowns?
Even if you decide to receive a traditional crown, the outcome depends mostly on the dentist you select. Take time to research your dentist’s training and experience before you agree to treatment.
After you receive your crown, take good care of it by practicing good oral hygiene daily. Keep your scheduled follow-up appointment to ensure your restoration is still functioning well. And schedule regular dental exams and cleaning appointments.
Dr. Rekha Reddy of Dallas, TX sponsors this post.