Same-Day Crowns Vs Traditional Crowns: A Simple (But Complete) Guide
Have you recently found out that you need a crown on your tooth but need clarification about which way to go – traditional crowns or same-day crowns?
Well, you can take comfort in knowing that you’re not alone.
Approximately 15 million people in America have received crowns or bridges.
The great news is that you now have multiple options to suit your budget and preferences.
To help you in your decision-making, we have gathered information to share everything you need to know about same-day crowns and traditional crowns.
How do the treatment processes differ?
Same-day crowns
When you get a same-day crown, you make a single appointment with your dentist.
We use an intraoral camera and computer-aided design to create a 3D image of your damaged tooth.
After creating the model for the crown, your dentist uses a CEREC milling machine to make your same-day crown at the office. Your dentist will prepare your tooth and bond the new crown when it’s done.
The whole process takes at most 2 hours.
Traditional crowns
Getting traditional crowns usually takes at least two visits.
Your dentist will take X-rays and then make an impression of your tooth that a laboratory will use to craft the crown.
By the end of your first visit, your dentist will have installed a temporary crown to protect your tooth until the laboratory finishes your permanent one within 2 to 3 weeks.
Your second visit will include removing the temporary crown, numbing your mouth, and placing the permanent crown.
How do they differ in cost?
Ceramic crowns often have similar costs, whether you get them made at your dentist’s office or a lab.
However, traditional crowns made of metal or porcelain can be more expensive. Cost estimates show that crowns made of porcelain can cost between $800 and $3,000, while metal ones range from $830 to $2,500.
Ultimately, your insurance benefits may determine your out-of-pocket payments. You can often find a cost estimator tool through a dental insurance company or call Star City Dental directly.
You might save money with a same-day crown because one dental visit is cheaper than two. Depending on your insurance, this can mean the difference between one or two copays.
What are the benefits of same-day crowns?
If you want convenience, then same-day crowns are the way to go.
- Convenience
- Single visit
- Easier fitting
- Digital intraoral scanner
- No gloopy impression putty
- No need for temporary crowns
What are the benefits of traditional crowns?
- Stronger materials (metal, porcelain)
- Hand-crafted results
- Potential to last longer
- Possibly more accurate color matching
Making the final choice
Ultimately, you’ll choose the right crown based on your preferences for convenience, comfort, quality, and cost.
Same-day crowns offer a better solution, given the comparable durability and clear advantage of convenience. In addition, same-day crowns eliminate the need for temporary crowns.
Traditional crowns are good if you don’t mind two appointments and about three weeks of waiting.
Call us today at (402) 858-0525 to make your appointment or to discuss your needs for a new crown.
We look forward to seeing you. You will find us located on 86th Street, just off Mandarin and Pioneers Blvd near the Firethorn Golf Club in the Southeastern part of Lincoln.
