Dental crowns have long been used to restore damaged or weakened teeth. They help improve both appearance and functionality, giving patients a natural-looking and long-lasting solution. Traditionally, this process took multiple appointments over several weeks. However, advancements in dental technology now allow patients to receive crowns in a single visit.
For many people, the appeal of Same Day Dental Crowns lies in their efficiency. Rather than waiting for a laboratory to manufacture a crown, modern practices can design, produce, and place the crown all on the same day — saving time without compromising quality.
How Same Day Crowns Are Made and Fitted
Same Day Dental Crowns are made using cutting-edge CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided Manufacturing) technology. The process begins with a digital scan of the patient’s tooth using a small, handheld device. This eliminates the need for messy impression materials and speeds up the process significantly.
Once the 3D image of the tooth is captured, it is uploaded to specialised software that allows the dentist to design the crown on-screen. After refining the design, the information is sent to an in-practice milling machine, which carves the crown from a solid block of high-quality ceramic material.
The crown is then polished, colour-matched, and fitted — all in one appointment. There is no need for a temporary crown or a second visit.
Benefits of Same Day Dental Crowns
1. Time-Efficient Treatment
One of the most significant advantages of same day crowns is the speed at which they are delivered. What once took weeks can now be completed in a matter of hours. For patients with busy lifestyles, this convenience is invaluable.
2. No Temporary Crowns Required
Traditional crowns often require a temporary restoration to protect the tooth while the permanent crown is made. These temporary crowns can fall off or cause discomfort. Same day crowns eliminate this step altogether.
3. High Precision and Comfort
Digital impressions are far more comfortable than traditional moulds. They also provide greater accuracy, leading to better-fitting crowns that require fewer adjustments.
4. Durable and Aesthetic Results
The ceramic used for same day crowns is durable and designed to blend naturally with the surrounding teeth. With proper care, these crowns can last many years and maintain their aesthetic appeal.
When Are Same Day Crowns Recommended?
Same day crowns are suitable for various situations, including:
- Teeth that are cracked or fractured
- Severely decayed teeth that need structural reinforcement
- Teeth treated with root canal therapy
- Cosmetic improvements for discoloured or misshaped teeth
However, not all cases are suitable for this type of treatment. In instances where the damage is extensive or more complex restorations are needed, a traditional crown may still be the better option.
What Happens During the Appointment?
Step 1: Initial Examination and Tooth Preparation
The dentist begins by examining the affected tooth to determine whether a crown is appropriate. If so, they will shape the tooth and remove any decay or damaged areas.
Step 2: Digital Imaging
Instead of using traditional putty impressions, the dentist captures digital images of the tooth and surrounding teeth using a 3D intraoral scanner.
Step 3: Crown Design
The digital scan is uploaded to the CAD software, where the dentist designs a crown that fits precisely and matches the patient’s bite and aesthetic.
Step 4: Milling and Placement
The design is sent to an in-house milling machine, which fabricates the crown in roughly 20–30 minutes. Once ready, the dentist will check the fit, make any necessary adjustments, and then bond the crown to the prepared tooth using strong dental cement.
Care and Maintenance After Treatment
Same day crowns require the same care as natural teeth. Patients should:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily, especially around the crown
- Avoid biting hard objects like pens or ice
- Schedule regular dental check-ups and hygiene appointments
With good oral hygiene, same day crowns can last for 10 to 15 years or even longer.
Repair or Replacement in the Future
Despite their durability, crowns may occasionally need to be repaired or replaced due to wear, damage, or changes in the surrounding teeth. It’s important to monitor the condition of the crown over time and consult a dentist if issues arise.
For a better understanding of when to repair or replace a crown, patients can refer to this helpful overview of dental crown repair vs replacement, which outlines the key differences and when each option is appropriate.
Who Should Consider Same Day Crowns?
Same day crowns are ideal for patients who:
- Want to avoid multiple dental visits
- Prefer digital impressions over traditional moulds
- Need a fast, effective solution for damaged or weakened teeth
- Are looking for a restoration that is both durable and aesthetically pleasing
Whether someone has a busy schedule, dental anxiety, or just prefers faster results, this treatment option can offer considerable benefits.
Final Thoughts
Same day dental crowns are a remarkable advancement in restorative dentistry. They offer an efficient, reliable, and comfortable solution for patients needing tooth restoration — without the delays of traditional crown procedures. Thanks to digital technology and modern ceramic materials, patients no longer have to compromise on quality for the sake of convenience.
As with any dental treatment, the success of same day crowns depends on individual circumstances and the expertise of the dental provider. By consulting with an experienced cosmetic or restorative dentist, patients can explore whether same day crowns are the right solution for their smile — and enjoy restored function and appearance in just one visit.
