Types of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are available in several materials, each offering different benefits based on the tooth being treated, its location, and your individual treatment goals. Our team can help you understand your options and recommend a crown material that supports both function and appearance.
- All-Ceramic and Porcelain Crowns: Natural-looking options that closely mimic natural enamel in color and translucency, making them ideal when appearance is a priority.
- Zirconia Crowns: Strong, durable ceramic crowns that withstand significant biting forces, making them well-suited for teeth that need added durability.
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns: Combine a strong metal base with a tooth-colored porcelain exterior, offering a balance of durability and natural appearance.
When a Same-Day Crown May Be Right
Same-day crowns aren’t the right fit for every situation, but many patients qualify. Good candidates typically have a tooth that’s structurally sound enough to support a crown without needing extensive rebuilding beforehand. A thorough evaluation of the tooth’s condition, surrounding gum tissue, and overall oral health helps determine whether a same-day crown or a traditional lab-fabricated crown is the more appropriate option for lasting results.
Factors such as the location of the tooth, the amount of remaining healthy tooth structure, and the complexity of the restoration may also influence the recommendation. The goal is always to choose a crown solution that provides a secure fit, reliable function, and a natural-looking result.
How Our Dental Crown Treatment Works
Every treatment plan is tailored to the condition of the affected tooth and the type of restoration needed for proper strength, comfort, and appearance. The exact timeline may vary depending on whether the crown is created in-office or fabricated by a dental laboratory. Here’s what to expect throughout the crown placement process, whether choosing a same-day or traditional crown.
Thorough Evaluation
A consultation begins with a complete evaluation of the affected tooth to help determine candidacy for a same-day crown or another restorative option.
Local Anesthetic
Once a good candidate is confirmed, treatment begins with a local anesthetic to keep the tooth and surrounding area comfortable.
Tooth Preparation
Damaged tissue is cleaned away and the tooth is reshaped, removing a small amount of structure to create space for the new crown.
Digital Impressions
Precise pictures of the tooth are taken, allowing a crown to be designed that fits perfectly with the rest of the mouth.
Placing the Crown
Once fabricated, the crown is fitted over the tooth, with careful attention to ensure it sits properly and the color matches the surrounding teeth.
Final Adjustments
If any modifications are needed, they’re made before the crown is permanently secured. For many patients, the entire same-day procedure can be completed in about an hour and a half.
Tips to Maintain Your Crown Long-Term
Consistent oral hygiene and regular professional care help protect your crown, natural tooth, and surrounding gum tissue. Brush twice daily and floss carefully around the restoration to keep the area clean and healthy.
Avoid hard foods such as ice and hard candy, and consider a custom nightguard if you grind or clench your teeth. Routine dental checkups allow us to monitor the crown’s fit and condition, address potential concerns early, and help extend its lifespan.
Restore Your Smile With a Stronger Tooth
A damaged or discolored tooth doesn’t have to affect daily comfort or confidence. Whether a same-day or traditional crown fits a specific case best, restoring the strength and appearance of a tooth is within reach. At Svans Dentistry in Scottsdale, AZ, personalized dental crown treatment can help protect a weakened tooth while restoring comfortable function and a natural-looking smile. Call us at 480-219-8760 to schedule your appointment and learn whether a custom dental crown is right for you.
Request an AppointmentFrequently Asked Questions About Dental Crowns
Dental crowns restore teeth that are chipped, cracked, weakened, or badly discolored. They’re also used to protect a tooth after root canal therapy, anchor a dental bridge, or complete a dental implant restoration.
For many patients, a same-day crown can be completed in about an hour and a half, from tooth preparation to final placement, all in a single visit.
Crown placement is performed with a local anesthetic to keep the tooth and surrounding tissue comfortable. Mild sensitivity afterward is common and typically improves within a few days.
With proper care, dental crowns can last many years, often a decade or more, depending on the material used and how well the crown is maintained over time.
A same-day crown is designed, fabricated, and placed in a single visit using in-office technology, while a traditional crown involves a temporary crown while a final restoration is custom-made off-site.
Very hard or sticky foods, like ice, hard candy, and taffy, should be avoided, as they can crack, chip, or dislodge a crown over time.
Yes. Crowns are carefully shaded and shaped to blend naturally with surrounding teeth, so the restoration looks consistent with the rest of the smile.
Signs that a crown may be needed include a cracked or broken tooth, significant decay, a tooth that’s had root canal therapy, or a tooth that’s severely worn or discolored. An evaluation can confirm the best option.
