If you’ve been told you need a crown, one of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to go with a traditional crown or a same-day dental crown. At Canyon Creek Dental in Billings, MT, Dr. Pearson and Dr. Clark offer both options — and which one is right for you depends on your needs, priorities, and lifestyle.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about same-day dental crowns Billings MT — from how they work to how they compare to traditional crowns — so you can make an informed choice before your appointment.
What Are Dental Crowns and Why Might You Need One?
A dental crown is a custom-made restoration that completely covers a damaged or decayed tooth. It restores strength, function, and appearance — allowing you to chew comfortably, speak clearly, and smile confidently again.
You might need a crown if you:
- Have a tooth that’s too damaged for a filling
- Recently had a root canal and need to protect the treated tooth
- Want to anchor a dental bridge
- Need to cover a dental implant
- Have a fractured or weakened tooth
- Want to improve the appearance of a misshapen or discolored tooth
How Same-Day Dental Crowns Work
Our office uses CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) technology to design, mill, and place a crown in a single visit. This eliminates the need for temporary crowns or multiple appointments.
Here’s how it works:
- Digital Impressions: Instead of messy molds, a 3D digital scan captures an exact image of your tooth.
- Custom Design: Dr. Pearson or Dr. Clark digitally designs your crown to perfectly fit your bite.
- On-Site Milling: The crown is milled from a durable ceramic block right in our office.
- Placement: The crown is bonded securely to your tooth — all in one visit.
This process typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours from start to finish.
How Traditional Crowns Are Made
Traditional crowns follow a longer, two-visit process:
- Initial Appointment: The tooth is prepared and impressions are taken. A temporary crown is placed.
- Lab Fabrication: A dental lab creates your permanent crown over 2–3 weeks.
- Final Placement: You return for a second appointment to have the crown fitted and bonded.
This option can offer more material choices (such as porcelain-fused-to-metal or gold), but it requires multiple visits and temporary crowns.
Same-Day vs. Traditional Crowns: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Same-Day Crowns (CEREC) | Traditional Crowns |
|---|---|---|
| Time | Completed in 1 visit (about 2 hours) | Requires 2+ visits over 2–3 weeks |
| Convenience | No temporary crown needed | Temporary crown required |
| Accuracy | Digital impressions = highly precise fit | Physical impressions can be less accurate |
| Material Options | Typically ceramic | Porcelain, metal, or porcelain-fused-to-metal |
| Durability | 10–15 years on average | 10–20+ years depending on material |
| Cost | $1,000 – $1,800* | $900 – $2,000* |
| Best For | Busy patients, quick results | Complex cases, specific material preferences |
**These are general estimates. Contact Canyon Creek Dental for an accurate cost estimate based on your needs.
Pros and Cons of Same-Day Dental Crowns
Pros
- Time-Saving: Complete treatment in a single visit.
- No Temporaries: Avoid the hassle and sensitivity that can come with temporary crowns.
- High Precision: Digital impressions create a highly accurate fit.
- Natural Appearance: Same-day crowns are made from tooth-colored ceramic for a seamless look.
Cons
- Limited Materials: Options are typically ceramic only.
- Not Ideal for Every Case: May not be recommended for complex restorations or certain bite conditions.
How Long Do Same-Day Crowns Last?
With proper care, same-day dental crowns can last 10 to 15 years or more — similar to traditional crowns. The longevity depends on your oral hygiene, diet, and habits like grinding or clenching.
Tips for extending the lifespan of your crown:
- Brush and floss daily
- Avoid chewing on hard objects (ice, pens, etc.)
- Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth
- Visit Dr. Pearson and Dr. Clark for regular checkups
Are Same-Day Crowns Right for You?
You’re likely a good candidate for same-day dental crowns Billings MT if:
- You want a fast, convenient solution
- You have a busy schedule and prefer fewer dental visits
- Your tooth doesn’t require complex multi-material restoration
- You prefer a natural-looking ceramic crown
However, traditional crowns may be a better choice if:
- You want a specific material like gold or porcelain-fused-to-metal
- Your bite or restoration needs are complex
- You’re undergoing other treatments that require multiple appointments anyway
FAQs About Same-Day Dental Crowns
1. Are same-day crowns as durable as traditional crowns?
Yes. They’re made from high-strength ceramic and typically last 10–15 years with proper care.
2. Is the procedure painful?
Most patients experience little to no discomfort. Local anesthesia is used during preparation.
3. Do insurance plans cover same-day crowns?
Most dental insurance plans cover crowns — regardless of whether they’re same-day or lab-made. Coverage amounts vary.
4. Can same-day crowns be used after a root canal?
Absolutely. They’re commonly used to protect teeth following root canal therapy.
5. How do I care for a new crown?
Brush and floss as usual, avoid hard foods initially, and schedule regular checkups to monitor the crown.
Schedule Your Same-Day Crown Appointment in Billings, MT
If you need a crown and want a fast, comfortable solution, Canyon Creek Dental is here to help. Using advanced CEREC technology, Dr. Pearson and Dr. Clark create high-quality, custom crowns in just one visit — so you can restore your smile without the wait.
Call our Billings, MT office today to schedule your consultation and find out if a same-day dental crown is right for you.
