A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are typically made of materials such as porcelain, ceramic, or metal.
Dental crowns used to take several weeks to manufacture and place. However with advances in dental technology, CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics), it is now possible to get a same-day dental crown.
What are CEREC crowns?
CEREC crowns are a type of dental crown made using computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology. This technology allows dentists to create custom-fit, all-ceramic crowns in a single visit to the dental clinic, without the need for temporary crowns or multiple appointments.
During the CEREC crown process, the dentist takes a digital scan of the patient’s teeth, which is used to create a 3D image of the tooth in need of a crown. The dentist then uses this image to design the crown using specialized software. The design is sent to a milling machine, which uses a block of ceramic material to create the crown.
Once the crown is milled, the dentist can place it on the patient’s tooth and make any necessary adjustments to ensure a perfect fit. The crown is then permanently bonded to the tooth using dental cement.
CEREC crowns are known for their durability, natural appearance, and convenience. They can be used to restore damaged or decayed teeth, improve the appearance of misshapen or discoloured teeth, and strengthen teeth that have undergone root canal treatment.
Benefits and features of same-day dental crowns
Convenience: Since the crown can be made and placed in a single visit, you don’t have to go through the hassle of scheduling multiple appointments.
Time-saving: Traditional crowns can take several weeks to manufacture and place, but with same-day crowns, you can have your tooth restored in just a few hours.
Comfort: The CEREC system uses digital impressions, which are much more comfortable than traditional impressions that involve messy putty.
Accuracy: The digital impressions used in the CEREC system are much more accurate than traditional impressions, resulting in a better-fitting crown.
Material: Same-day dental crowns are typically made of high-quality ceramic material that looks and feels like a natural tooth.
Durability: Same-day dental crowns are durable and can last for many years with proper care.
Customisation: The CEREC system enables dentists to customise the crown to match the colour, shape, and size of your natural teeth.
Common issues that dental crowns can fix
Dental crowns can be used to fix a variety of dental issues, including:
- Tooth decay: Crowns can be used to cover and protect a tooth that has been damaged by decay.
- Cracked or chipped teeth: Crowns can restore the function and appearance of teeth that have been cracked or chipped.
- Weak teeth: Teeth that are weak due to large fillings or root canals can be strengthened with a crown.
- Misshapen or discoloured teeth: Crowns can be used to improve the appearance of misshapen or discoloured teeth.
Lifespan of CEREC dental crowns
Proper care and maintenance can help your same-day dental crown last up to 15 years or more. While the quality of materials used plays a role, other factors, such as the dentist’s experience and the patient’s oral hygiene habits, can also impact its lifespan.
Regular dental check-ups, professional cleanings, and good oral hygiene habits like brushing and flossing are essential to maximising the longevity of your crown. These simple measures will help maintain the health of the crown and prevent any potential issues from developing over time, ensuring lasting results.
Cost of same-day dental crowns
The cost of a same-day dental crown can fluctuate depending on several factors, including your location, the dental clinic you select, the material used, and the complexity of your case.
On average, same-day crowns are comparable in cost to traditional crowns, with the price ranging from AUD 1,100 to AUD 2,500 or more per tooth. It’s important to note that insurance coverage for same-day crowns depends on your specific policy, and it’s best to consult your insurance provider for clarification.
To avoid any unexpected expenses, it’s advisable to discuss the cost of the procedure with your dentist ahead of time to gain insight into the breakdown of costs and explore any potential payment options or financing plans.