When a tooth is damaged, cracked, or severely decayed, a dental crown offers a reliable solution to restore its function, strength, and appearance. Traditionally, getting a crown was a multi-step process that required at least two separate appointments spaced weeks apart. This system often involved uncomfortable temporary crowns and a lengthy wait. We recognized the inconvenience this posed for our patients, which is why we embraced modern dental technology to offer a much better alternative. Now, we can create and place a beautiful, permanent crown in just one visit to our office.
We are proud to offer our patients advanced dental solutions that cater to their busy lifestyles. Using state-of-the-art CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) technology, we have streamlined the entire crown procedure. This system allows us to design, mill, and place a custom-fitted, high-quality ceramic crown in a single appointment right here in our Suwanee office. For our patients, this means less time in the dental chair, no need for messy impressions, and no hassle with temporary restorations. You can walk in with a compromised tooth and walk out with a fully restored smile.
The Initial Consultation and Digital Impression
The first step in your single-visit crown journey is a thorough examination. We begin by assessing the tooth that needs a crown to confirm it is the proper treatment for your specific situation. We check the tooth's structural integrity and the health of the surrounding gum tissue. This examination ensures that a crown will be a durable, long-term solution. If your tooth is suitable for a same-day crown, we will prepare it for the procedure. This process involves carefully removing any decay or damaged portions and shaping the tooth so the new crown will fit perfectly over it. We administer a local anesthetic to make sure you are completely comfortable throughout this process.
Once we prepare the tooth, we move on to the digital impression phase. This point is where the magic of CEREC technology truly begins. Instead of using goopy, uncomfortable impression trays, we use a small, handheld intraoral camera to capture a highly detailed 3D digital image of your prepared tooth and the adjacent teeth. This process is fast, clean, and incredibly precise. The digital scan creates a replica of your tooth on our computer screen, which we then use as the blueprint for your new crown. This digital model enables us to design a restoration that fits seamlessly with your bite and appears completely natural.
Designing and Milling Your Custom Crown
With the 3D digital model of your tooth on our screen, we use advanced CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software to design your new crown with meticulous precision. We customize every detail, from the shape and size to how it fits against neighboring teeth and aligns with your bite. We also select a ceramic block that precisely matches the color and shade of your natural teeth, ensuring the final restoration blends in seamlessly with your smile. This design process gives us complete control over the outcome, allowing us to create a crown that is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing.
After we finalize the design, we send the digital file to our in-office CEREC milling machine. This device is a remarkable piece of CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) equipment that acts like a 3D printer for dental restorations. The milling unit carves your custom crown from the solid block of high-quality, tooth-colored ceramic we selected earlier. This process is surprisingly quick, typically taking only about 15-20 minutes. While your crown is being milled, you can relax in the dental chair. We find that our patients are often fascinated by watching their new tooth being crafted right before their eyes.
Placing and Bonding the Final Restoration
Once the milling machine has finished crafting your new crown, we perform the final steps to complete your smile transformation. We first check the crown's fit and color to ensure it meets our high standards. We may make minor adjustments to guarantee it sits perfectly and feels comfortable when you bite down. Next, we polish the crown to a smooth, natural-looking finish that mimics the luster of your other teeth. When we are both satisfied with the fit and appearance, the crown is ready to be permanently bonded to your tooth.
We apply a strong dental adhesive to secure the crown in place, using a special light to cure and harden the cement. This step creates a powerful bond between the crown and your natural tooth structure. After a final check of your bite and a quick polish, your restoration is complete. There is no need for a follow-up appointment. You can leave our office with a beautiful, fully functional, and permanent crown. The entire process for same-day crowns is completed in just one convenient visit, allowing you to return to your life with a healthy, confident smile.
Experience the Convenience of Modern Dentistry
We are committed to making dental care as efficient, comfortable, and effective as possible for our patients. By investing in CEREC technology, we have eliminated the long waits and multiple appointments traditionally associated with dental crowns. Our same-day crown process saves you valuable time and provides a high-quality, durable restoration that looks and feels like your natural tooth. If you have a damaged or decayed tooth in need of repair, we invite you to discover the difference a single-visit crown can make. Let us help you restore your smile with the convenience and precision of modern dentistry.
Frequently Asked Questions About Same-Day Crowns
How long do same-day CEREC crowns last?
CEREC crowns are crafted from a durable, high-quality block of ceramic, making them just as strong and long-lasting as traditional lab-made crowns. With proper oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups, your same-day crown can last for 10 to 15 years, or even longer. Avoiding habits like chewing on ice or hard objects will also help preserve the longevity of your restoration.
Is the same-day crown process painful?
We prioritize your comfort throughout the entire procedure. Before we begin preparing your tooth, we will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area thoroughly. You will not feel any pain during the tooth preparation or crown placement. The digital impression process is also much more comfortable than traditional putty impressions. Most patients report feeling no discomfort at all during their single-visit crown appointment.
At Suwanee Family Dentistry, we are committed to delivering exceptional dental care to families in Suwanee, GA, and the surrounding communities. Our team combines advanced technology with a compassionate approach to create healthy, beautiful smiles in a comfortable environment. To learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment, please contact us today.