Same day crowns, also called CEREC crowns, are custom dental restorations created and placed in a single appointment using advanced CAD/CAM technology. Dr. Hickson uses digital imaging to design your crown, mills it from a solid block of high-quality ceramic right here in our office, and places it the same day - no temporary crown needed. The entire process typically takes just 2-3 hours, allowing you to leave with a permanent, beautiful crown in one visit.

We use CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) technology to create your crown. First, Dr. Hickson prepares your tooth and takes digital impressions - no messy putty needed. The computer designs your custom crown to perfectly match your bite and adjacent teeth. Our in-office milling machine then carves your crown from a ceramic block. Finally, we polish and place your new crown, all in the same appointment.

Same day crowns offer numerous advantages including completion in one visit instead of two or three, no temporary crown to worry about, no messy impressions, immediate relief and restoration of function, natural appearance that matches your teeth, and less time away from work or other activities. You avoid the inconvenience of multiple appointments and get a permanent solution faster.

With proper care, same day CEREC crowns typically last 10-15 years or longer, comparable to traditional lab-made crowns. The high-quality ceramic material is extremely durable and resistant to wear. Your crown's longevity depends on factors like oral hygiene, teeth grinding, and regular dental checkups. We'll monitor your crown at routine visits and help you maintain it for maximum lifespan.

Yes, CEREC crowns are made from high-quality ceramic that closely mimics the translucency and appearance of natural tooth enamel. Dr. Hickson carefully selects the shade to match your surrounding teeth and designs the crown to blend seamlessly with your smile. Most people won't be able to tell you have a crown. The ceramic material also resists staining better than natural teeth.

Yes, same day CEREC crowns are just as strong and durable as traditional lab-made crowns. They're milled from solid blocks of high-quality ceramic that's extremely hard and resistant to fracture. The digital design and precision milling ensure an excellent fit that distributes biting forces evenly. Clinical studies show CEREC crowns perform as well as or better than traditional crowns over time.

We recommend crowns to restore and protect teeth that are cracked or broken, weakened by large fillings, damaged by severe decay, discolored or misshapen, or have undergone root canal treatment. Crowns can also replace missing teeth as part of a dental bridge or implant. Dr. Hickson will evaluate your tooth and recommend a crown when it's the best option for preserving your tooth and restoring function.

We use local anesthesia to numb the area completely, so you shouldn't feel pain during the procedure. You may feel pressure as we prepare the tooth, but no discomfort. After the anesthesia wears off, some sensitivity is normal for a few days but is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain medication. Most patients find the process very comfortable and appreciate avoiding a second appointment.

Same day crown costs are typically comparable to traditional crowns. While the technology is advanced, you actually save time and potential costs associated with temporary crowns and multiple appointments. Many dental insurance plans cover a significant portion of crown costs, usually 50% after your deductible. Our team will verify your benefits and provide a detailed cost estimate before treatment.

Care for your CEREC crown just like your natural teeth. Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss once daily around the crown, and visit us for regular checkups and cleanings. Avoid chewing very hard objects like ice or hard candy, and don't use your teeth as tools. If you grind your teeth at night, Dr. Hickson may recommend a night guard to protect your crown and other teeth.

CEREC crowns can be used on most teeth including molars, premolars, and front teeth. The technology works well for single crowns on individual teeth. However, certain complex cases may still require traditional lab-made crowns or other restorations. Dr. Hickson will evaluate your specific situation and recommend the best treatment option for your needs.

Dr. Hickson carefully checks your bite and makes any necessary adjustments before you leave the office, ensuring your crown fits comfortably and functions properly. If you experience any discomfort or bite issues after leaving, contact us right away. Minor adjustments are common and easy to make. We want you to be completely satisfied with how your crown feels and functions.