Same Day Crowns vs. Traditional Crowns: Which is Right for You?

Two popular choices for restoring damaged teeth are same-day crowns and traditional crowns. Both of these treatment options are effective for improving your oral health and the appearance of your smile. However, there are differences in the placement process. The following guide outlines the benefits and limitations of each type of dental crown to help you make an informed decision about your dental care.

Same day crowns

Same day crowns are a modern dental innovation designed for efficiency and convenience. These crowns are created and placed during a single dental appointment. Using advanced technology, such as 3D imaging and in-office milling machines, the dentist captures detailed images of the tooth and designs the crown on-site.

The advantages of same day crowns include reduced time spent in the dentist's chair and fewer overall visits. This particularly benefits individuals with demanding schedules or who prefer a streamlined approach to dental restorations. Additionally, same day crowns eliminate the need for temporary crowns, which can sometimes be uncomfortable or prone to dislodging.

However, same day crowns may not be suitable for every individual. Due to the limitations in the technology, they may not get a full picture of the patient's mouth like an impression would, particularly if they have a fracture below their gumline or severe dental damage. For these cases, a traditional crown will likely provide a more stable and comfortable fit.

Traditional crowns

Traditional crowns involve a multi-step process, typically requiring two or more visits to the dental office. During the first appointment, the dentist prepares the tooth and takes impressions, which they send to a dental lab to fabricate the custom crown. The dentist will then place a temporary crown to protect the treated tooth until the permanent crown is ready, usually in one to two weeks.

One of the advantages of traditional crowns is their versatility and longevity. They can consist of various materials, including gold and metal alloys. These materials can be more durable for certain dental conditions and are more customizable for complex cases of damaged teeth.

The primary drawback of traditional crowns is the time commitment. The waiting period for the permanent crown and the need for a temporary restoration may inconvenience some patients. Additionally, the process requires at least two visits to the dentist, which can be challenging for those with limited availability and busy schedules.

Which option is best?

The decision between a same day crown and a traditional crown depends largely on the individual's treatment goals, dental health needs, and lifestyle. Both options offer reliable solutions for restoring teeth and improving the health and appearance of smiles. A thorough consultation with a dentist is the best way to explore these choices and select the most appropriate treatment based on one's unique needs and treatment goals.

Cost is another important factor when deciding between same day crowns and traditional crowns. Depending on their insurance coverage, patients may save money with a same-day crown, as they will only need to visit the dental office and pay one copay instead of two. Same day crowns also often have similar costs to traditional crowns, whether the patient gets them from a dentist or a dental lab.

It is important to keep in mind that the cost of the restoration will depend on the materials used and the patient's insurance coverage. For example, traditional crowns that use metal and porcelain can be more expensive, requiring more of an upfront cost. The dental office can provide an estimate for patients to give them a clearer picture of what they can expect to pay out-of-pocket.

Schedule an appointment today

No matter what kind of dental crown option you want to explore, the Brighton Specialty Dental Group team is here to help determine the best solution based on your unique needs. Are you ready to get started? Call our Ventura office to learn more about our options or to schedule an appointment.

Request an appointment here: https://www.brightonspecialtydental.com or call Brighton Specialty Dental Group at (805) 644-5284 for an appointment in our Ventura office.

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