Dental crowns are a common and effective way to repair teeth that are cracked, broken, or weakened by decay. Traditionally, getting a crown involves two or more dental visits. First, the dentist removes decay and places a temporary crown. Then, after a period of healing, the dentist places a permanent crown that has been crafted in a dental lab. Today, however, many practices offer same-day dental crowns, sometimes called CEREC (which stands for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) crowns, that can be completed in one visit.
Patients may wonder whether this faster option is worth the higher price. Understanding how same-day crowns work—and their pros and cons—can help patients feel confident discussing options with their dental team.
What Is a Same-Day Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers and protects a damaged or weakened tooth. It is often used when a cavity or structural damage is too severe to be repaired with a traditional filling. The crown covers the whole tooth, restoring its strength, shape, and function.
A same-day dental crown is designed, created, and placed in a single appointment. Instead of sending impressions to an outside lab, the dentist uses digital tools to make the crown in the office. One of the most well-known systems for this is CEREC, which is why patients often hear the term CEREC crown used interchangeably with same-day crown or in-office crown.
The process relies on three main steps:
- 3D digital scanning of the tooth
- Computer-aided design (CAD) of the crown
- Chairside milling, where the crown is carved from a ceramic block
First, the dentist prepares the tooth, just as they would for a traditional crown. Next, a small camera scans the tooth and nearby teeth to create a detailed digital image. This replaces the need for the impression trays and putty used in creating lab crowns.
The dentist then designs the crown on a computer, adjusting the shape and bite. Once the design is finalized, a milling machine in the office carves the crown from a solid ceramic block. After polishing, and sometimes staining for color, the dentist bonds the crown to the tooth during the same visit.
For patients, the biggest differences are fewer appointments and no temporary crown. However, they will typically pay a higher cost for the convenience.
Same-Day Crown Cost: What Patients Should Know
The fee charged for a same-day crown is often higher than a traditional crown, though prices vary by practice and location. The higher cost is usually related to:
- Advanced scanning and milling equipment
- Technology maintenance
- Training and expertise
- Convenience of fewer visits
Insurance coverage is often similar for both types of crowns, but patients should ask how their specific plan applies and whether there are out-of-pocket differences.
CEREC Crown Pros and Cons
There are advantages and disadvantages to CEREC crowns. A dentist can help patients choose the best option for their particular situation.
Pros of CEREC Crowns
Convenience. The entire process is completed in a single appointment. This eliminates the need for a temporary crown and waiting period before the permanent crown is placed. For patients with broken teeth or urgent dental needs, same-day crowns allow the tooth to be restored immediately.
Comfort. Digital scans tend to be more comfortable than traditional impressions.
Accuracy. Digital scans can improve fit accuracy.
Cons of CEREC Crowns
Cost. Same-day crowns can cost several hundred dollars more out of pocket depending on insurance plans.
Material options. Lab-made crowns may offer a closer match to the patient’s natural teeth than CEREC crowns. For front teeth that need very precise color matching, a lab crown may be a better choice.
Durability. One of the most common concerns for patients is about how long CEREC crowns last. Modern ceramic materials used for same-day crowns are strong and designed to last many years. However, same-day dental crown durability depends on several factors, including:
- Tooth location (back teeth experience more force)
- Grinding or clenching habits
- Quality of tooth preparation and bonding
For some patients, especially those who grind their teeth or need crowns on molars, a lab-made zirconia crown may offer greater long-term strength. In other cases, same-day crowns perform very well over time.
In-Office Crown vs. Lab Crown: At a Glance
To review: when comparing in-office, same-day crowns to lab crowns, the main differences involve timing, materials, customization, and cost.
In-office (same-day) crowns:
- Made in one visit
- Typically made from a single block of ceramic
- Designed and adjusted by the dentist
- Offer convenience and speed
- Usually cost more
Same-day crowns are often ideal for:
- Small to moderate cracks
- Broken or chipped teeth
- Emergency situations
- Back teeth where appearance is less critical
- Patients with limited time for multiple visits
In these cases, convenience does not usually mean sacrificing quality.
Lab-made crowns:
- Require two or more visits
- Created by skilled dental technicians in a lab
- May use layered ceramics or zirconia
- Allow for more advanced color matching and fine details
- Can be more durable
A traditional lab crown may be recommended when:
- The crown is on a front tooth
- Detailed color matching and aesthetics are important
- The bite is complex
- The tooth has extensive damage
- Maximum strength is needed
Dental labs can spend more time perfecting shape, color, and translucency, which may matter for visible teeth.
Both options can provide excellent results. The best choice depends on the tooth being treated and the patient’s priorities.
Find a Dentist to Help Weigh Your Crown Options
Same-day crowns offer speed, convenience, and modern technology, but they are not the best solution for every situation. Comparing in-office crowns vs. lab crowns, understanding CEREC crown pros and cons, and asking about same-day dental crown durability can help patients make informed choices.
The best way to decide which type of crown is best for you is to go over all the options with your dentist. It’s quick and easy with our online appointment tool.