If you’ve been wondering how long does a same day crown take, the short answer is usually about 1 to 2 hours from start to finish. Thanks to advanced CEREC technology and digital dentistry, patients at Edentist Canterbury can walk out with a fully restored smile completed in a single visit, without the need for a temporary crown or multiple appointments. This guide explains the process, benefits, timeline, longevity, cost considerations, and how same-day crowns compare with traditional crowns.
What Are Same-Day Crowns and How Do They Work?
Same-day crowns often called CEREC crowns (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) are custom-made ceramic crowns designed, milled, and fitted in a single appointment. Using digital impressions, CAD/CAM software, and an in-office milling machine, dentists can prepare the tooth, design the crown, and bond it permanently within hours.
This eliminates the need for:
- Physical molds
- Multiple dental visits
- Wearing a temporary crown
- Waiting weeks for a dental lab
The result is a durable, highly aesthetic permanent crown that blends seamlessly with your natural smile.
How Long Does a Same Day Crown Take?
From start to finish, the entire same-day crown procedure typically takes 60 to 120 minutes. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Preparing the Tooth – 15 to 30 minutes
Your dentist will numb the area, remove decay or old filling material, shape the tooth, and prepare it to receive the crown. If you’ve recently had root canal therapy, this step ensures the restored tooth is structurally sound.
2. Digital Scan – 5 minutes
Instead of messy traditional impressions, a handheld scanner creates a precise digital impression, capturing a 3D model of the tooth.
3. Designing the Crown – 10 to 20 minutes
Using advanced software, your dentist designs a crown perfectly matched to your bite, tooth contour, and shade. This step ensures your crown is both functional and natural-looking.
4. Milling the Crown – 15 to 30 minutes
A block of ceramic or porcelain is placed into the milling machine. The crown is carved with incredible precision, resulting in a restoration that’s strong, lifelike, and ready to be fitted.
5. Fitting and Bonding – 10 to 20 minutes
The dentist checks the bite, adjusts minor details, polishes the crown, and bonds it securely. You leave with a fully functional same-day dental crown; no need to come back.
Same-Day Crowns vs Traditional Crowns: What You Need to Know
If your tooth needs complex custom shading or has unique structural needs, a traditional crown may still be recommended. But for most cases, same-day crowns offer faster, more comfortable treatment without compromising quality.
How Long Do Same-Day Crowns Last?
Many patients ask, “How long do same-day crowns last?” The good news is that with good oral hygiene, they can last 10 to 15 years, and often longer.
Factors that influence longevity include:
- Daily brushing and flossing habits
- Avoiding hard or sticky foods
- Not using teeth to open packages
- Managing clenching or grinding (night guards help)
- Regular dental checkups
Modern ceramic crowns are incredibly durable, and when properly cared for, can match the lifespan of traditional crowns.
Types of Dental Crowns and Cost Overview
Although same-day crowns are popular, it helps to know the different types:
1. Ceramic or Porcelain Crowns
Natural appearance; ideal for front teeth and same-day restorations.
2. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM)
Strong but less aesthetic; not typically used for same-day procedures.
3. Gold or Metal Crowns
Very durable but visually noticeable; requires a traditional process.
4. Zirconia Crowns
Strong and aesthetic; may require a dental lab unless in-office equipment supports zirconia milling.
Cost of Same-Day Crowns
Prices vary depending on materials, technology, and location. At Edentist Canterbury, we ensure transparent pricing and will discuss costs fully during your consultation.
Benefits of Same-Day Crowns
- Convenience: Completed in a single appointment.
- Comfort: No gag-inducing impressions.
- Precision fit: Digital scans offer superior accuracy.
- Aesthetic appeal: Ceramic looks like natural enamel.
- Strength: Comparable durability to lab-made crowns.
- No temporary crown: Eliminates risk of it falling off or causing sensitivity.
For anyone searching for same-day crowns near me, the convenience alone often makes them the preferred choice.
Is a Same-Day Crown Right for You?
You may be a great candidate if you:
- Have a cracked, weakened, or heavily filled tooth
- Want a fast solution
- Prefer avoiding temporary crowns
- Need a natural-looking, durable restoration
- Have a busy schedule or dental anxiety
Your dentist will evaluate your tooth structure, bite, and restoration needs to determine the best approach.
Final Thoughts
If you’re still wondering how long does a same day crown take, remember that the entire treatment from tooth preparation to having your permanent crown fitted generally takes 1 to 2 hours. It’s one of the fastest, most efficient ways to restore a damaged tooth without compromising quality or longevity. Ready to restore your smile in just one visit?
Contact Edentist Canterbury today to book your consultation and discover whether same-day crowns are right for you. Enjoy convenience, comfort, and long-lasting results all in a single appointment!
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