Dental Crowns vs. Same Day Crowns: What’s the Difference?

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a custom-made “cap” that fits over a tooth to:

• Strengthen a weakened or cracked tooth
  
• Restore function after a root canal
  
• Replace large fillings
  
• Improve shape or alignment
  

At our office, we offer both traditional lab-fabricated crowns and same-day crowns made in-house.

Traditional Crowns: What to Expect

With a traditional crown, the process typically involves:

1. A comprehensive exam and digital impressions
   
2. Tooth preparation and a temporary crown
   
3. Sending your custom design to a dental lab
   
4. A follow-up visit to place your permanent crown (in 1–2 weeks)
   

Materials:

• Porcelain
  
• Ceramic
  
• Zirconia
  
• Metal (in some cases)
  

Best for:

• Complex cosmetic cases
  
• Crowns that need custom shading or layering
  
• Patients not in a rush
  

Same Day Crowns: Fast & Convenient

With modern technology like our in-house milling system and digital scanner, we can design, create, and place a high-quality ceramic crown in just one visit.

The process:

1. We scan your mouth with our iTero digital impression system
   
2. Your crown is designed digitally
   
3. It’s milled right here in our office — no temporary crown needed
   
4. We place and bond the final crown, all in a single appointment
   

Benefits of same-day crowns:

• No goopy impressions
  
• No second visit
  
• No temporary crown to worry about
  
• Great fit and aesthetic
  

Best for:

• Busy schedules
  
• Simple restorative needs
  
• Patients who want fast results
  

Which Crown Should You Choose?

The right type of crown depends on your situation, goals, and timeline. Here’s a quick breakdown to help guide your decision:

Traditional Crowns

• Requires two or more visits
  
• A temporary crown is placed while the permanent one is created in a lab
  
• Offers more material choices — including porcelain, zirconia, and metal
  
• Allows for custom shading and layering for highly aesthetic cases
  
• Great for patients with complex cosmetic needs or bite issues
  

Same Day Crowns

• Completed in a single visit — no need for a temporary
  
• Designed and milled in-house using digital scans
  
• Made from durable ceramic that blends naturally with your smile
  
• Ideal for busy schedules or those who want faster results
  
• Great option for restoring molars or simple cosmetic repairs
  

Not sure which is right for you? We’ll review your needs and preferences during your visit and walk you through every option — including what your insurance covers.

Are Same Day Crowns Covered by Insurance?

Yes — in many cases, same-day crowns are covered by dental insurance just like traditional crowns. However, your benefits may vary depending on your provider.

If you have Medi-Cal, keep in mind:

• Crowns may be covered if medically necessary
  
• Some cases require pre-authorization
  
• Our team can check your benefits and explain all costs in advance
  

Learn more on our Medi-Cal information page.