Same-day Crowns

Same-day crowns, also known as CEREC^® (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) crowns offered at Woodard Family Dentistry, are a revolutionary dental restoration method that allows for the design, creation, and placement of a crown in a single visit. Unlike traditional crowns that typically require multiple appointments and a waiting period while the crown is fabricated in a dental lab, same-day crowns use CAD/CAM (computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing) technology to streamline the process.

Benefits of Same-Day Crowns

Same-day crowns have numerous advantages over traditional crowns, making them an increasingly popular choice for dental restoration. Some key advantages include:

Time Efficiency

One of the most significant advantages of same-day crowns is the convenience of completing the entire procedure in a single visit. This eliminates the need for multiple appointments, saving you time and reducing the disruption to your daily schedule.

Immediate Restoration

Same-day crowns provide immediate restoration of damaged or decayed teeth, allowing you to leave the dental office with a fully functional and aesthetically pleasing tooth. This immediate restoration helps prevent further damage and discomfort.

Enhanced Comfort

With same-day crowns, there is no need for temporary crowns that can sometimes be uncomfortable and prone to falling off. The digital scanning process used to create same-day crowns is also more comfortable than traditional impression methods that use dental putty.

Precision and Accuracy

The CAD/CAM technology used in same-day crowns ensures a high level of precision and accuracy in the design and fabrication of the crown. This results in a better fit and improved overall dental health.

Aesthetically Pleasing Results

Same-day crowns are made from high-quality ceramic materials that mimic the natural appearance of your teeth. They are custom designed to match the color, shape, and size of your existing teeth, providing a seamless and natural-looking restoration. Call us to learn more.

The Same-Day Crown Procedure

The process of getting a same-day crown at Woodard Family Dentistry involves several steps, each designed to ensure a comfortable and successful outcome. Here is an overview of the procedure:

Initial Consultation and Examination

The first step is a comprehensive consultation with Dr. Woodard. During this appointment, he will examine your teeth and gums, discuss your dental history, and take digital images if necessary. This evaluation helps determine if a same-day crown is the best option for your specific needs.

Tooth Preparation

Once it is determined that a same-day crown is appropriate, Dr. Woodard will prepare the affected tooth. This involves removing any decay or damaged portions of the tooth and shaping it to accommodate the crown. A local anesthetic will be used to ensure your comfort during this process.

Digital Scanning

After the tooth is prepared, Dr. Woodard will use a digital scanner to create a precise 3D image of your tooth. This digital impression taking is more comfortable than traditional impressions and provides a highly accurate representation of your tooth.

Crown Design and Fabrication

The digital scan is sent to a computer where Dr. Woodard will use CAD software to design your custom crown. Once the design is complete, the information is sent to an in-office milling machine that fabricates the crown from a block of high-quality ceramic material. This process typically takes about 15 to 20 minutes.

Fitting and Placement

Once the crown is fabricated, Dr. Woodard will check its fit and appearance. Any necessary adjustments are made to ensure a comfortable fit and proper bite alignment. The crown is then permanently bonded to the prepared tooth using dental cement.

Final Adjustments

After the crown is placed, Dr. Woodard will make any final adjustments to ensure a perfect fit and comfortable bite. You will leave the office with a fully restored tooth that looks and feels natural.

Caring for Your Same-Day Crown

Proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure the longevity and functionality of your same-day crown. Here are some tips to help you care for your new crown:

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Continue to practice good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily. Pay special attention to the area around the crown to prevent plaque buildup and maintain gum health.

Attend Regular Dental Visits

Schedule regular checkups and cleanings with Dr. Woodard to monitor the condition of your crown and overall oral health. Regular dental visits help detect any potential issues early and ensure your crown remains in good condition.

Maintain a Healthy Diet

Avoid sticky and hard foods that can damage your crown. Maintain a balanced diet to support your oral and overall health. Foods high in sugar should be consumed in moderation to prevent decay around the crown.

Address Bruxism

If you grind or clench your teeth, consider wearing a nightguard to protect your crown and natural teeth. Bruxism can cause excessive wear and damage to dental restorations.

Avoid Tobacco

Smoking or using tobacco products can increase the risk of gum disease and other oral health issues, potentially affecting the longevity of your crown.

Conclusion

Same-day crowns have proven to be a convenient, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing solution for restoring damaged or decayed teeth. At Woodard Family Dentistry in Spokane Valley, WA, Dr. Christopher S. Woodard, DMD, and our skilled team are dedicated to providing the highest quality dental care, including advanced restorative treatments like same-day crowns. By choosing a same-day crown, you can enjoy immediate restoration, enhanced comfort, and improved oral health.

Are you ready to experience top-quality dental care for your entire family? Visit Dr. Christopher S. Woodard, DMD, at Woodard Family Dentistry, conveniently located at 1020 S Pines Rd, Spokane Valley, WA 99206. Don't wait any longer to take care of your oral health. Call us today at (509) 924-8585 to schedule your appointment or to learn more about our comprehensive dental services.