There are a number of uses for dental crowns, but the most common is to repair a tooth that has suffered more decay than can be restored with a dental filling. All of the damaged tooth structure is removed, then the remaining healthy structure is covered and protected with a dental crown.
Same-day crowns have revolutionized dentistry because they give us the ability to prepare a tooth and place a final restoration during the same visit, eliminating the weeks-long waiting time for a restoration to be fabricated by a dental laboratory. But how much do same-day crowns cost? Are they as good as traditional crowns? Let’s take a closer look.
What is a same-day crown?
Same-day crowns are an innovative treatment option that uses computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) technology to design and fabricate restorations that are functional, durable, and aesthetic.
The process begins by using an intra-oral camera to take 3D images of your tooth and jaw, allowing your doctor to match the size and shape of your natural tooth while designing your dental crown. The decayed or damaged areas of the tooth are removed, then another set of impressions is taken, which ensures that your crown will fit onto your prepared tooth.
Next, your doctor uses sophisticated computer software to design your crown. This design is sent to our in-office CEREC milling machine, which carves your crown from a ceramic block. Once complete, the crown is bonded to your tooth. The entire process takes about two hours from start to finish.
The average cost of a same-day crown in NYC
While same-day crowns are faster than traditional dental crowns, the cost is comparable, depending on the materials being compared. Because CEREC eliminates the costs of lab fees and additional appointments, we are able to pass these savings on to our patients.
The average cost of a same-day crown in NYC is between $1,000 to $3,000. The exact cost depends on the amount of work needed to prepare your tooth and which tooth is being restored. CEREC crowns are usually at least partially covered by most dental insurance plans, but we can help you understand your out-of-pocket costs during your consultation.
Advantages of same-day crowns
If the cost of same-day crowns is similar to that of traditional crowns, how do they compare otherwise? Are traditional crowns better than same-day crowns?
It’s a common misconception that same-day crowns are not as strong, realistic, or long-lasting as traditional dental crowns because they’re made so much faster, but this isn’t the case. The technology behind the milling machine has improved over the years and today’s advancements mean that these crowns match or even surpass the quality of traditional dental restorations.
Furthermore, expediting the crown process doesn’t just minimize your inconvenience – it also lowers the risk of potential complications. By eliminating the usual two-week waiting time between when your tooth is prepared for your dental crown and when it is placed, there’s no need for a temporary restoration. These restorations have the potential to become loose or fall out, which can damage your teeth, and can allow bacteria to seep in, leaving your tooth vulnerable to decay. A same-day crown is better for your oral health.
Learn more about same-day crowns in Manhattan
Are you interested in getting a same-day crown? Contact us today at 212.685.4730 to schedule your appointment.