When Are Same-Day Dental Crowns a Good Idea?

If you’ve ever had to get a dental crown, you know the process can take some time—multiple appointments, temporary crowns, and a waiting period while your permanent crown is being made. But now there's a faster option: same-day dental crowns.  

This convenient solution allows you to get a custom-fitted crown in just one visit to the dentist. But when exactly are same-day crowns in Colorado Springs a good idea? Let’s explore the benefits and situations where this option makes the most sense.

What Are Same-Day Dental Crowns?

First, let’s clarify what we mean by "same-day crowns." Traditionally, when you need a crown, your dentist takes an impression of your tooth, sends it to a lab, and you wait (usually a few weeks) for the crown to be made. In the meantime, you’ll wear a temporary crown. With same-day crowns, the entire process—from taking the impression to crafting and placing the crown—happens in a single visit.

This is possible thanks to advanced CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing) technology, which allows dentists to create detailed 3D images of your teeth and then use those images to mill a custom crown right in the office.  

When Should You Consider a Same-Day Crown?

Same-day crowns can be an excellent solution for many patients, but they aren’t the right choice for every situation. Here’s when they’re a good idea:

1. You Have a Broken or Damaged Tooth

If you’ve cracked or chipped a tooth, you don’t want to wait around for weeks to fix it. Same-day crowns can protect the damaged tooth and restore its shape quickly, preventing further issues like pain, infection, or worsening damage. Your tooth can be fully repaired in just one visit, saving you the hassle of multiple appointments.

2. You Need a Root Canal

Root canals can weaken teeth and leave them vulnerable to fractures. A crown is often placed to protect the tooth after a root canal. With same-day crowns, your dentist can finish the entire process in one sitting: perform the root canal and immediately place the crown. This saves time and reduces the chance of further damage to your tooth.

3. You Want to Avoid a Temporary Crown

Temporary crowns can be uncomfortable, and since they’re not as secure as permanent ones, there’s always the risk of them coming loose. With same-day crowns, you skip the temporary phase altogether. You won’t have to worry about your temporary crown falling out or feeling less than ideal because you’ll walk out of the office with a permanent solution.

4. You Have a Busy Schedule  

One of the most appealing aspects of same-day crowns is the time saved. Same-day crowns are a great option if you have a busy lifestyle or can’t easily fit multiple dental appointments into your schedule. You’ll spend less time in the dentist’s chair and won’t need to take extra time off work or rearrange your calendar for follow-up visits.

When Are Same-Day Crowns Not Ideal?

While same-day crowns are convenient and effective, there are a few situations where traditional crowns might be a better fit:

• Complex Cases: If the tooth or bite alignment is more complex, traditional crowns may offer more options in terms of materials and design customization.

• Material Preferences: Some patients or dentists prefer materials like gold or metal for certain teeth (especially molars), which can be harder to produce in a same-day system.

If you’re unsure whether same-day crowns are the best choice for you, it’s a good idea to talk to your dentist. They can evaluate your unique needs and help you decide which type of crown is the best fit.

Ready to Get Same-Day Crowns in Colorado Springs?

If you have a damaged tooth or need a crown after a root canal, same-day dental crowns could be the perfect solution.

Interested in learning more? Contact Esthetic Family Dentistry today to schedule your consultation. Our team is here to help you get the dental care you need—quickly and comfortably!