Comparing Traditional Crowns to Same Day Crowns: Pros and Cons

Introduction

When it comes to dental crowns, patients now have the option to choose between traditional crowns and same day crowns. Both options have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will compare traditional crowns to same day crowns, exploring the pros and cons of each.

Traditional Crowns

Pros

1. Proven Durability: Traditional crowns have been used for many years and have a proven track record of durability. They are known to last for a long time, providing patients with a reliable solution for their dental needs.

2. Customization: Traditional crowns are typically made in a dental laboratory, allowing for customization to match the patient’s natural teeth in terms of shape, size, and color. This ensures a natural-looking smile.

3. Wide Range of Materials: Traditional crowns can be made from various materials such as porcelain, metal, or a combination of both. This allows dentists to choose the most suitable material based on the patient’s specific needs.

Cons

1. Multiple Appointments: Getting a traditional crown usually requires multiple appointments. The first appointment involves preparing the tooth, taking impressions, and placing a temporary crown. The final appointment is needed to place the permanent crown.

2. Time-consuming: Due to the need for multiple appointments and the involvement of a dental laboratory, the process of getting a traditional crown can be time-consuming. Patients may have to wait for several weeks before receiving their permanent crown.

3. Potential Discomfort: The temporary crown placed during the waiting period may cause some discomfort or sensitivity, which can be bothersome for some patients.

Same Day Crowns

Pros

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1. Time-saving: As the name suggests, same day crowns can be completed in just one dental visit. The entire process, from preparation to placement, can be completed within a few hours.

2. Convenience: With same day crowns, patients do not have to wear temporary crowns or go through the hassle of scheduling multiple appointments.

Summary

Traditional crowns have been used in dentistry for many years and have proven to be effective in restoring damaged teeth. They are typically made in a dental laboratory, requiring multiple visits to the dentist. On the other hand, same day crowns, also known as CEREC crowns, are fabricated using advanced technology right in the dental office, allowing for a single visit solution.

While traditional crowns offer a longer track record and may be more suitable for complex cases, same day crowns provide the convenience of immediate results and eliminate the need for temporary crowns. However, same day crowns may have limitations in terms of material options and may not be suitable for all patients.

By comparing the pros and cons of traditional crowns and same day crowns, you can weigh the factors that are most important to you, go such as durability, convenience, and aesthetics, to make an informed decision about which type of crown is the right choice for your dental needs.

Q: What are traditional crowns?
A: Traditional crowns are dental restorations that are custom-made in a dental laboratory and require multiple visits to the dentist for preparation, temporary crown placement, and final crown placement.
Q: What are same day crowns?
A: Same day crowns, also known as CEREC crowns, are dental restorations that are designed, fabricated, and placed in a single dental visit using computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology.
Q: What are the pros of traditional crowns?
A: Traditional crowns have been used for many years and have a proven track record of durability. They can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, metal, or a combination of both, allowing for customization based on individual needs.
Q: What are the cons of traditional crowns?
A: The process of getting traditional crowns involves multiple dental visits, which can be time-consuming and inconvenient. Additionally, the use of temporary crowns during the waiting period for the final crown can sometimes lead to discomfort or sensitivity.
Q: What are the pros of same day crowns?
A: Same day crowns offer the convenience of completing the entire crown restoration process in just one dental visit, saving time and reducing the need for temporary crowns. The CAD/CAM technology used in same day crowns allows for precise and accurate crown fabrication.
Q: What are the cons of same day crowns?
A: Same day crowns may not be suitable for complex cases that require extensive customization or involve certain materials. Additionally, the cost of same day crowns may be higher compared to traditional crowns due to the advanced technology involved.