Did you know that dental crowns have a rich history spanning over 4,000 years? These time-tested dental solutions have been widely used to restore damaged, decayed, or unsightly teeth.
Traditionally, replacing an old crown or getting a new one would take at least two weeks; that’s not the case with our same-day crowns in Ballantyne, NC which you can obtain in just a single appointment! However, thanks to advancements in dental technology, that is no longer the case! Of course, we understand if you’re skeptical and wondering if there’s a catch. After all, what exactly sets same-day crowns apart from traditional crowns? Let’s delve into the details and find out.
Traditional Vs. Same-Day Crowns: The Differences in Their Treatment Processes
When you visit our dental practice in Ballantyne, NC for a same-day crown, you can expect to complete the entire process in just one dental appointment.
With the help of computer-aided design and intraoral cameras, our Ballantyne dentists, Dr. Deborah Aten and Dr. Anthony Garofalo will create a 3D image of your damaged tooth. This image serves as a model for creating the crown. Then, with this model, your dentist will use a CEREC machine to fabricate your same-day crown right in the office.
Once the dental crown is ready, your dentist will prepare your tooth and securely bond the new crown, completing the entire procedure in approximately one hour. This way, your dentist repairs and strengthens your damaged or weakened tooth and restores its functionality.
Traditional dental crowns, on the other hand, typically require two separate visits to the dentist. During your first visit, your dentist will examine your tooth, take X-rays, and perform necessary treatments, such as a root canal. An impression of your tooth will also be taken and sent to the laboratory that will craft your permanent crown.
Before you leave, your dentist will place a temporary crown over the damaged tooth to protect it while waiting for the permanent crown to be completed. This process can take 2+ weeks since laboratories typically take 2 to 3 weeks to create a permanent crown. During your second visit, your dentist will remove your temporary crown, numb your mouth, prepare your tooth, and carefully install your permanent crown to ensure a proper fit.
Although traditional and same-day crown procedures have different treatment timelines, they are painless since they are completed with local anesthesia. So, you will not experience any real pain or discomfort besides the initial injection.
Do They Differ in Cost?
The material used to make a crown is a major determinant of its cost. For instance, porcelain crowns can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $2,500, while metal crowns can range from $900 to $2,500. Sometimes, the cost of ceramic crowns can be similar, whether made at your dentist’s office or a dental lab.
However, traditional crowns made of metal or porcelain tend to be more expensive. That is because you need a temporary crown, which can cost anywhere from $200 to $700. Ultimately, the exact cost of your dental crown depends on your dentist’s fees and insurance benefits. To better understand the cost, you can ask your dental office directly or use a cost estimator tool from your dental insurance company.
The Pros and Cons of Traditional Dental Crowns
The Pros
Enhanced Strength and Material Options: Traditional crowns, made in a lab, tend to be stronger since they offer a wider range of material options than CEREC same-day crowns. Traditional crowns can use materials like metal or porcelain, offering greater versatility in aesthetics and durability.
Natural Appearance: Traditional crowns can achieve a more natural look by utilizing porcelain or ceramic shades that match your teeth color, expertly crafted to blend seamlessly. Additionally, the expertise of your dental professionals in crafting traditional crowns ensures that the final restoration seamlessly integrates with your existing teeth, providing a more natural appearance.
The Cons
Discomfort During Impressions: The process of taking dental impressions for traditional crowns uses soft and sticky putty material that can be unpleasant and uncomfortable for people with a heightened gag reflex.
Longer Turnaround Time: Traditional crowns typically take at least 2 weeks to fabricate, extending the time needed to install the crown and complete the procedure.
Temporary Crown Inadequacy: You’ll need to invest in a temporary crown which is usually less durable, secure, and reliable than the permanent crown.
Inconvenience and Disruption: Due to multiple appointments and the longer turnaround time needed for traditional crowns, you may have to take time off from work or school and arrange childcare. This can cause significant inconvenience and disruption to your daily life.
The Pros and Cons of Same-Day Crowns
The Pros
For many busy people, the CEREC® same-day crown is a miracle. Same-day dental crown procedures can be a lifesaver if you must look great for your upcoming interview or have short notice to appear as a guest on a TV show. It lets you visit your dentist and leave with your smile completely fixed.
Time savings and convenience are two clear benefits of same-day CEREC®. However, this procedure has become very well-known due to additional benefits, including:
Comfort: Same-Day CEREC® allows for better comfort since you’ll need fewer injections and can complete treatment on time. Moreover, instead of using uncomfortable traditional impressions, your dentist can use a digital scanner to create a model for the crown.
Immediately Restoring Your Teeth Function: With a same-day crown, you don’t need a temporary crown that can fall off while eating or talking or limit you to a specific diet. Instead, you get a custom-made crown that immediately prevents tooth decay, fixes your dental issue, and restores your teeth function.
Prevents Injury: CEREC® crowns give you a crown that fits in a single dental visit. You won’t have to rely on temporary crowns that can fall off and cause injury or other dental issues.
Saves You Money: Multiple appointments and investing in temporary crowns can cost you money, even with dental insurance. Same-day crowns eliminate the need for temporary crowns and cut your dental visits by half, saving you money.
The Cons
Not As Durable as Their Traditional Siblings: Same-day crowns are typically made of ceramic. However, ceramics’ durability may not match the longevity of traditional crowns crafted from other materials, such as metal and porcelain.
Custom Shade Limitation: Achieving a custom shade that perfectly matches your existing teeth’s color may require additional time with same-day crowns. While they can offer a natural appearance and good fit, obtaining the desired shade might necessitate more time and effort.
Unsuitable for Certain Dental Cases: Same-day crowns may not be suitable for all patients, particularly in cases where the tooth is fractured below the gumline. The imaging camera used in the procedures might face challenges in accurately mapping such dental conditions, making alternative approaches necessary.
How Long Do CEREC® Same-Day Crowns Last?
CEREC and traditional crowns have a similar lifespan of 5 to 15 years. However, your crown can last several decades with diligent care and maintenance.
How Long Does It Take to Get A Same-Day Crown?
Typically, a same-day dental crown can be produced within 60 to 120 minutes, allowing for a quick turnaround time. During this brief period, your dentist may offer you the choice of waiting in their office or returning later to have your dental crown fitted.
Restore Your Smile and Oral Health with Same-Day Crowns in Ballantyne
At Aten & Garofalo Dentistry, we want to brighten your smile, restore your dental functions, and ensure optimal oral health. That’s why we offer same-day crowns in Ballantyne, NC to stop and prevent tooth decay, restore your dental structure integrity, and instantly enhance your smile. Of course, we also offer traditional crowns and other dental services to keep your oral health in tip-top shape.
If you need more help choosing the best dental crowns for you, our Ballantyne dentists and experienced dental team are happy to offer a consultation to learn more about your needs. Schedule an appointment today, and let’s get you your smile back.
