When your dentist suggests you need a crown, it’s essential to understand the available options. Same-day crowns and traditional crowns are both popular solutions for restoring damaged teeth, but they differ in terms of treatment process, cost, and durability. Knowing the differences can help you make an informed decision.
How Do Same Day Crowns and Traditional Crowns Differ?
The treatment process is where same-day crowns and traditional crowns diverge significantly. Here’s a breakdown of each option:
Same Day Dental Crowns Process
Same-day crowns are designed to provide convenience and efficiency. The process begins with an intraoral camera and computer-aided design (CAD) to create a 3D image of your damaged tooth. The CEREC machine then fabricates the crown right in the dentist’s office, and your dentist places it on the same day. The entire process usually takes just 1-2 hours.
Traditional Crowns Process
With traditional crowns, the process takes two appointments. During the first visit, your dentist will take an impression of your tooth and may perform additional work like a root canal if needed. A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth while the permanent one is crafted in a lab. It typically takes 2-3 weeks for the permanent crown to be ready. At your second visit, the temporary crown is replaced with the permanent one.
Cost Comparison: Same Day Crowns vs Traditional Crowns
If you’re considering the cost of same day crowns vs traditional crowns, it’s important to know that ceramic crowns usually cost the same whether made in-office or at a dental lab. However, crowns made from porcelain or metal can cost more, especially if they require lab work.
Cost Breakdown:
- Same Day Crowns (Ceramic): These crowns are often more affordable because they are made on-site without the need for a lab, reducing the total cost of the procedure.
- Traditional Crowns: The costs can range from $800 to $3,000 for porcelain crowns, while metal crowns typically cost between $830 and $2,465.
The cost will depend on your dental insurance and the fees of the dentist. Some insurance plans may also have deductibles or co-pays, which can affect your overall expenses.
Benefits of Same Day Crowns
If you’re looking for convenience, same day crowns are an excellent option. Here’s why:
- Quick and Convenient: Same day crowns eliminate the need for multiple appointments and temporary crowns, saving you time.
- Comfortable: Digital impressions used in same-day crowns are more comfortable than traditional methods, and fewer injections are required.
- Improved Oral Health: No temporary crowns mean fewer chances for bacteria to enter the tooth and cause decay. Same day crowns provide a better fit right away, enhancing long-term oral health.
- Cost-Effective: By reducing the need for multiple appointments, same day dental crowns can save you money on multiple co-pays and reduce overall treatment costs.
Downsides of Same Day Crowns:
- Durability: Same day crowns made from ceramic may not be as durable as porcelain or metal crowns, especially for back teeth that undergo heavy wear.
- Customization: While same day dental crowns are highly effective, they may not provide the level of color matching or fit that traditional lab-created crowns can offer.
Benefits of Traditional Crowns
Traditional crowns offer some distinct advantages:
- Stronger Materials: Traditional crowns are typically made from metal or porcelain, offering greater durability than same day crowns.
- Customization: Since these crowns are made in a lab, they can be perfectly matched to the color and size of your surrounding teeth.
- Long-Term Durability: Metal crowns, in particular, are known for their strength and ability to withstand significant wear over time, making them ideal for back teeth.
Downsides of Traditional Crowns:
- Longer Treatment Time: The process takes two visits, and you will need to wear a temporary crown while the lab creates your permanent one.
- Discomfort: The temporary crown may not fit as comfortably as the permanent one, potentially leading to discomfort.
Making the Final Choice: Same Day Crowns vs Traditional Crowns
When deciding between same day crowns vs traditional crowns, consider the following:
- If convenience is your priority, same day crowns are a great choice. They save you time and offer the comfort of a single dental appointment.
- If durability and customization are most important, traditional crowns might be better suited for you. They offer a more personalized, long-lasting solution, especially for teeth that need extra strength.
Both options have their merits, and ultimately, the right choice will depend on your unique dental needs. Your dentist can help you make the best decision based on your oral health, lifestyle, and budget.
Need More Information? Schedule Your Consultation Today!
Choosing the right type of crown for your tooth restoration is important. Contact us today to schedule a consultation, and let’s discuss whether same day dental crowns or traditional crowns are the best option for you.