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What Are the Pros and Cons of Dental Crowns?

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By White Center Smiles

A dental crown is a type of dental restoration that places a cap over a tooth or dental implant. Crowns help keep the underlying tooth from breaking apart, and can be used to help fix an area on a tooth that is broken. There are different types of crowns available to patients, and depending on the severity of the tooth will determine which type of crown is best. Crowns are typically made of hard materials such as porcelain or ceramic, but can also be made of gold, resin, or stainless steel. They can be made to match the color, size, and shape of your natural teeth and blend in nicely. 

Pros of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns improve your appearance, and can help correct any cosmetic issues in the mouth. There are many benefits to dental crowns, and crowns are commonly used today.

  • Crowns are used to replace large or worn out fillings in the teeth
  • Restore dental implants
  • Restore cracked, injured, or damaged teeth
  • Correct discoloration or alignment
  • Reshape your teeth
  • Keep cracked or damaged teeth from breaking down further
  • Protect the underlying tooth after a root canal
  • Crowns are durable and last for years

Same-Day Crowns: What Are They?

Same-day crowns, also referred to as one-visit crowns, are a groundbreaking development in the field of dentistry. These crowns are utilized to repair and safeguard teeth that have been damaged or weakened. In contrast to conventional crowns, which usually necessitate multiple dental visits and a waiting period of several weeks, same-day crowns can be created, constructed, and installed in just one dental appointment. This cutting-edge technology has revolutionized the dental restoration procedure, providing convenience and effectiveness for both patients and dental practitioners.

What is the process for getting a same-day crown?

At White Center Smiles, we offer same-day crowns, which have become increasingly popular among patients and dental professionals. The process of getting a same-day crown involves several important steps:

  1. Digital Impression: Instead of messy traditional impressions, our dentist uses a handheld wand or intraoral scanner to take a highly accurate 3D image of the tooth that needs a crown. This digital scan is more comfortable for the patient and provides precise measurements.
  2. Computer-Aided Design (CAD): Advanced computer software is used to design the crown based on the digital impression. The dentist can customize the size, shape, and color of the crown to match the patient’s natural teeth. This digital design allows for precise adjustments and ensures a perfect fit.
  3. Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM): Once the design is finalized, the data is sent to our in-office milling machine. This machine uses high-quality dental material, such as ceramic or zirconia, to carve out the crown according to the digital design. The milling process is quick, usually taking about 15-30 minutes.
  4. Placement: After the crown is milled, it is immediately ready for placement. Our dentist carefully checks the fit and aesthetics of the crown and makes any necessary adjustments on the spot. Once satisfied, the crown is bonded to the prepared tooth using dental cement. The entire process typically takes a few hours or less, allowing patients to leave our office with their new crown on the same day.

Discover the advantages of getting same-day crowns

Time Efficiency: Same-day crowns offer a significant advantage in terms of time saved. Unlike traditional crown procedures that require multiple appointments and weeks of waiting, same-day crowns allow patients to address their dental issues in a single visit, reducing the overall time commitment.

Convenience: Same-day crowns eliminate the need for uncomfortable temporary crowns and the potential for additional appointments if they become dislodged or damaged. Patients can enjoy the convenience of immediate restoration without the hassle of scheduling multiple visits.

Accurate Fit: The use of digital impressions and CAD/CAM technology ensures highly accurate crown measurements and designs. This precision results in a snug fit, reducing the risk of complications or discomfort.

Aesthetics: Same-day crowns can be customized to match the color and shape of the patient’s natural teeth, providing a seamless and natural appearance. This aesthetic benefit is particularly important for visible teeth.

Minimized Discomfort: With same-day crowns, patients spend less time in the dental chair, minimizing discomfort and anxiety associated with multiple appointments.

Durable and Long-Lasting: Same-day crowns are made from high-quality dental materials, such as ceramic or zirconia, known for their durability. With proper care, same-day crowns can last many years, just like traditional crowns.

Cons of Dental Crowns

With any dental procedure there are always some disadvantages patients should consider. In some cases, crowns may need to be repaired or replaced. This is not common but does happen occasionally. During a crown procedure the tooth has to be filed down to ensure the crown can be securely placed. If a crown is not fitted properly there is risk that it can fall out, or allow bacteria to enter underneath the crown. Patients may become more sensitive to hot or cold after their crown is placed. Our office typically recommends a sensitive toothpaste to help with this issue.

If patients ever have an issue with a crown we encourage them to contact our office right away. Leaving a damaged crown untreated can lead to further issues or complications. Overall, crowns are extremely helpful in preserving teeth, and give patients a beautiful natural white smile. The benefits of crowns definitely outweigh the risks.

Interested in Finding Out More?

If you are interested in finding out more about dental crowns, or if you have a damaged or discolored tooth, a dental crown may be the right solution. Our team is available to help you take the next step towards that perfect smile.

To schedule your consultation with our team contact our office, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!