Tips For Choosing Between Traditional Lab And Same Day Dental Crowns

When a tooth is very decayed or broken or a root canal is needed, a crown may be necessary to repair the damage. While traditionally this meant going to the dentist once to prepare the tooth, make the impressions, and get a temporary crown and a second time about a month later to have the permanent crown placed, it's now possible to get same day dental crowns from some dentists.

Availability

Approximately 10 to 15 percent of U.S. dentists now have the necessary equipment to make same day dental crowns in their offices. This means that some people might have to go to a different dentist to get this service or the service may not be available at all in their area.

Cost

In general, there isn't any need to worry about cost differences between traditional and same day dental crowns. Most dentists charge the same amount as they can get the same amount back from insurance companies for the procedure and there are no lab fees to worry about with same day crowns. They also understand that many people are worried about cost and would be less likely to pay extra for this new service. However, some dentists who have just purchased the necessary equipment may charge extra for these crowns to try to recoup their investment a bit sooner, so check with the dentist to be sure.

Aesthetics

The aesthetics of the crown will depend on the material it's made from. The same day dental crowns are typically made out of a single chunk of porcelain, while traditional crowns can be made out of porcelain, ceramic, metal or a combination of these materials. Teeth that are very visible are best treated with the use of a traditional crown, as a more realistic appearance can be obtained by using layers of different colors of porcelain. Your teeth aren't typically the same color from the top to the bottom, so a single color of porcelain will be more noticeable. The dentist can paint on the shading with a same day crown, but it won't be as lasting of an effect as with layered porcelain.

Timing

Where the same day crown truly shines is when it comes to the time involved. These crowns can be completed in one to two hours, versus two 30- to 60-minute appointments spaced about a month apart for a traditional crown. Also, with a traditional crown, it's necessary to use a temporary crown, which might mean additional dental visits if there is a problem with the temporary crown not fitting or breaking.

Grinding

Some dentists recommend getting traditional crowns if you grind your teeth, in particular, metal crowns, as these are stronger. However, in other cases, the dentist may simply suggest using a night guard to protect the crowns and other teeth. Speak to your dentist to determine the best option if you tend to grind your teeth during the night. It may depend on the severity of the grinding.

Number of Teeth

Usually, dentists only do same day crowns when it's just one tooth being restored. Multiple teeth being treated at the same time, such as when a bridge is being made, usually means getting traditional crowns.

Condition of Teeth

If the tooth is damaged below the gum line, then the laser that scans the tooth to create the pictures necessary for producing a same day dental crown won't be able to get the necessary visuals. A dental impression and a traditional crown will most likely be necessary in this case. For more information, contact dental experts, such as John P Poovey DMD PC.

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