The short answer is: Fact! You can now get your dental crowns in one day! These are often referred to by providers as a same-day crown. Modern technologies such as CAD and CAM are responsible for this breakthrough. CAD stands for computer-assisted design and CAM is computer-aid manufacturing. Computers can help to both design and manufacture a dental crown while you wait in the office instead of having to make another appoint, perhaps weeks later.
The Old Method
In the past, you would have had to get a mold of your tooth made so that it could be sent off to a lab. There, the dental impression would be used to make the crown, which would then be sent back to your dental office. During this time, you would have a temporary crown. At the second visit, you would have the temporary crown removed and the permanent one put into place.
Modern Technology For Same-Day Crowns
Now your mouth can be scanned digitally. This gives the computer a 3D image to work with. Using that image, the computer can then develop a digital mold. Without the need for a physical impression, the software determines the size and shape of the crown that is needed. A dentist can then look at the virtual crown and make any needed adjustments to fine tune the final product. The digital information is then passed electronically to a machine that makes the crown on its own right there in the office. In less than two hours, your crown is ready.
Chairside Economical Restorations of Esthetic Ceramic
CEREC, for short, is one system that uses CAD and CAM to produce high-quality crowns while you wait. You avoid multiple trips to the dentist, and it can even reduce the cost of the procedure by saving lab costs. You do not have to worry about walking around for days or weeks with a temporary crown in your mouth. Plus, fewer visits to the dentist means fewer times that you will need your mouth numbed. It is perfect for nervous patients. This is the time and cost effective solution for getting a dental crown made.
Are Same-Day Crowns As Good as Traditional Crowns?
In reality, the answer depends more on your dentist than on the technology. A good oral care professional can have greater success with a same-day crown than a less experienced or rushed dentist might with a traditional crown that was made in a lab. The technology is sound. Choosing the right dentist is the key to a high-quality same-day crown.
