Same-Day Crown vs Lab-Created Crown, Which is Better?

If you have a badly damaged tooth and need a dental crown, you can choose between lab-created crowns and same-day (or CEREC) crowns. 

But, which is the better option? 

This short article from Myers + Co Family Dentistry will help you make an informed decision. 

Lab Created Crowns: How Do They Work? 

After the dentist determines that you need a crown and prepares the tooth, they will take an impression of your mouth. The impression is then sent to a dental lab, which will make the crown.

It can take up to two weeks for the crown to be manufactured, so the dentist will fit you with a temporary crown. 

Once the permanent crown is ready, you will go back to the dentist to complete the treatment. The dentist will make sure that the crown fits perfectly and feels comfortable before cementing it in place. 

How Do Same-Day Crowns Work? 

Same-day crowns use sophisticated software, known as CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing) to create the crown in the dentist's office in one visit. 

Just like with traditional crowns, your Cary dentist will first examine and prepare the tooth. But, then, instead of using a physical mold, they use a special camera to take a digital image of your tooth. This image is then uploaded into a computer and the dentist will use CAD software to design the crown 

Once the crown is designed, a milling machine will actually manufacture it right there in the dentist's office. Next, the dentist will place the crown on your tooth, make sure it fits, and you are ready to go home. 

So, Which One Is Better? 

Both lab-created and same-day crowns have their advantages and disadvantages. Let's take a look: 

The Advantages of Lab-Created Crowns:

• More Versatility: Lab-created crowns can be made from a variety of materials, such as porcelain, metal, resin, and so on.
• Higher quality: Dental labs specialize in designing and manufacturing crowns and the results can be superior to those of a same-day crown created by a dentist with less experience. 

The Disadvantages of Lab-Created Crowns

• Longer Process: Getting a lab-created crown usually requires at least two appointments, spaced a week or two apart. 
• More Opportunities for Error: Because the process is longer and involves multiple steps and parties, there are opportunities for something to go wrong. 

The Advantages of Same-Day Crowns

• A Faster Process: As the name suggests, same-day crowns can be made and placed in a single visit, saving you time and eliminating the need for a temporary crown.
• Better Accuracy: The digital impressions used for same-day crowns are often more accurate than traditional impressions, and the software allows your dentist to adjust the design with a high degree of precision.

The Disadvantages of Same-Day Crowns 

• Less Versatile: Same-day crowns are usually made of ceramic, which might not be suitable for everyone. 
• The Experience of the Dentist Matters: The dentist needs to be comfortable using CAD/CAM technology to create good, long-lasting crowns. 

Which One Should You Choose?

Ultimately, the right choice will depend on your specific situation. Dr. Sarah Myers from Myers + Co Family Dentistry can help you understand the difference between the two and choose the best option for your needs. 

If you want to find out more about same-day crowns in Cary, you can get in touch with us online to book your appointment.