How Long Does a Same-Day Crown Take?

Dental crowns help restore a badly damaged tooth and complete the look and function of your smile. But traditional crowns involve a longer back-and-forth process.

A dentist takes a mold of the tooth and sends it to a lab, where the crown is made from scratch. This can take around 2 weeks, during which you’ll wear a temporary crown, which protects the natural tooth but may be rather ill-fitting.

But today, you may have another way to get your dental crown that involves just a few hours. Keep reading to learn more.

What Are Same-Day Crowns, and How Do They Work?

Same-day crowns rely on special technology to digitally scan and mill a dental crown right in the dentist’s office.

First, the dentist will use an intraoral scanner to create a rendition of the tooth, then use a special mill like Planscan or CEREC to create the crown. The dentist will add a small block of porcelain to the mill and begin cutting it based on the digital scan.

Once it’s ready, the dentist will place the new crown on top of the natural tooth and do some finishing touches, which can involve slight drilling to ensure the crown is a perfect match. 

How Long Does It Take to Make a Same-Day Crown?

Same-day crowns are true to their name, but not the way you think. It means you can get a new, quality dental crown on the same day as your appointment.

But the mill only needs a few hours to cut through the porcelain and make the crown, so you won’t have to wait too long in the dentist’s office. 

Are Same-Day Crowns As Good As Traditional Dental Crowns?

You will not choose speed over quality with same-day crowns. They are designed to last for years and allow you to enjoy your favorite foods without constantly worrying about them breaking.

With the right care, a same-day crown can last around 10 years on average, which is similar to a traditional porcelain dental crown. Some prosthetics, which are made from metal, can last longer, but people typically prefer porcelain because it can help the crown blend with their other natural teeth.

Here are some tips to maintain your new same-day crown:

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• Have good oral hygiene with daily brushing and flossing.
• Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth.
• Be mindful when eating hard, chewy, and sticky foods.
• Add more fresh fruits and vegetables to your diet.
• Don’t smoke or vape.
• Get routine dental cleanings and check-ups every six months. 

Get a Same-Day Dental Crown in Tempe, Arizona

Experience the convenience of same-day dental crowns at New Tempo Family Dental in Tempe, Arizona, where Dr. Leonett is available for brief consultations to determine if this solution is right for your smile. Whether you're looking to enhance your teeth or have questions about our comprehensive dental services, our friendly team is here to assist you. You can easily request an appointment online or by calling (480) 491-5000. We're dedicated to delivering top-notch care that aligns with your schedule and dental needs.