Same-Day Crowns: What to Expect | Glebe Park Dental Canberra

A dental crown covers and protects a tooth that is weak, cracked or heavily filled. Traditionally, crowns take two visits and a temporary crown in between. With in-clinic technology, a ceramic crown can often be designed, made and fitted in a single appointment.

Who might need a crown

A tooth with a large or failing filling
A cracked or broken tooth
A back tooth after root canal treatment
A worn tooth

What happens on the day

Assessment. We examine the tooth and take X-rays to check a crown is suitable.
Preparation and scan. Under local anaesthetic, we shape the tooth and take a digital scan instead of traditional moulds.
Design and milling. The crown is designed on screen and milled from a ceramic block in the clinic.
Fitting. We check the fit, shade and bite, then bond the crown in place.

The appointment usually takes around two to three hours.

Risks and things to know

Crowns can chip, come loose or need replacing over time. Preparing a tooth removes some tooth structure, and occasionally a tooth later needs root canal treatment. Not every tooth suits a same-day crown — your dentist will tell you if another option is better for you.

Costs

We give you a written quote after your assessment. Health fund rebates depend on your fund and level of cover. See our same-day crowns page for more.

Same-day crowns compared with traditional crowns

A traditional crown usually involves two visits: one to prepare the tooth and take impressions, and a second to fit the crown made by a dental laboratory, with a temporary crown worn in between. A same-day crown is designed from a digital scan and milled in the clinic, so it can often be fitted in a single appointment without a temporary. Not every tooth suits a same-day crown, and your dentist may recommend a laboratory-made crown or a different material depending on the tooth, your bite and any grinding habits.

Looking after your crown

Brush twice daily and clean between teeth, paying attention to the edge of the crown at the gum line.
Avoid using your teeth to open packets or bite very hard objects.
Ask about a night guard if you clench or grind.
Keep up regular check-ups so the crown and the tooth underneath can be monitored.

When a crown may not be the right choice

If a tooth has only a small amount of damage, a filling or an onlay may conserve more natural tooth. If the tooth is badly broken below the gum line or cannot be restored, options such as an implant, bridge or denture may be discussed instead.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a same-day crown appointment take?

Appointments are longer than a standard filling, often around two hours, because the crown is designed, milled and fitted in the same visit.

Will I need a root canal before a crown?

Only if the nerve of the tooth is inflamed, infected or has died. Many crowned teeth do not need root canal treatment.

How long do crowns last?

With good care many crowns last for years, but lifespan depends on the material, your bite, habits such as grinding and how well the area is kept clean.

Same-day crowns: what to expect at your appointment