How Long Does a Crown Take? Here’s What to Expect
When it comes to restoring a damaged or weakened tooth, a dental crown is one of the most effective and reliable solutions. It can essentially strengthen the tooth while also improving its appearance and restoring function by helping you bite and chew comfortably again.
But for many patients, there’s one key question: how long does it actually take to get a crown? Addressing the timing of the full procedure from the get-go is quite beneficial, but your answer depends on a few different factors. The type of crown, the dental technology used and the current condition of your tooth are of note here.
Let’s explore what each process looks like so you know exactly what to expect.
Understanding Dental Crowns: What Are They and Why You Might Need One
A dental crown is essentially a protective cap designed to cover a damaged or weakened tooth. It’s shaped to match your natural teeth and restore full function from chewing and speaking to smiling confidently.
Before diving into timelines, let’s get into why crowns are used and what they treat:
- To protect a weak or cracked tooth from further damage
- To restore a broken or worn-down tooth
- To cover and support a tooth with a large filling
- To hold a dental bridge in place
- To cover severely discoloured or misshapen teeth
- To complete a dental implant
Materials used for crowns include porcelain, ceramic, metal, resin, or a combination of these. Porcelain and zirconia are popular for their strength and natural appearance, especially for issues with front teeth. Metal-based crowns tend to be used for back molars due to their highly durable nature.
At SDG Dental, we have three options of all porcelain, full metal, or porcelain fused metal crowns. This latter crown comes with a metal base and a porcelain exterior to give you both durability and aesthetic appeal. Call us for more info.
What Affects the Timeline? Factors That Influence Crown Installation Time
There is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to timing—a few factors come into play that can either speed up or stretch out the process.
The set up at your dentist’s office matters depending on what technology they have and what materials they work with. While traditional methods take longer, offering in-house-made crowns or same-day ones can have you smiling in mere hours.
Next, the condition of your tooth plays a role. If a root canal is needed beforehand or if the tooth requires rebuilding before placing a crown, expect a longer process. Your bite and alignment may also affect how much adjustment is needed. This is an issue for back teeth that endure more pressure.
Step by Step: The Process of Getting a Crown
The process for a dental crown typically involves two separate appointments over a span of two to three weeks.
In the first visit, your dentist examines the tooth and prepares it by reshaping it to accommodate the crown. If necessary, a buildup (filling) may be done first. Impressions or digital scans are then taken and sent to a dental laboratory where your crown is custom-made. Before you leave, a temporary crown is fitted to protect your tooth in the meantime.
The second appointment (usually scheduled about 2–3 weeks later) involves removing the temporary crown, checking the fit and colour of the new one, and cementing it permanently in place. The final crown is then polished and adjusted until your bite feels comfortable.
Same-Day Crowns: All Done in One Go
If your clinic offers same-day crowns (often with CEREC or similar technology), everything happens in a single appointment. This usually lasts 2 to 3 hours, where dentists take a digital scan, designs it and mills it on-site. Once it’s ready, it’s placed immediately—no temporary crowns, no lab delays.
While this option is incredibly convenient, it’s worth noting that not all clinics offer this service, and it may not be suitable for every case.
Speeding Things Up: Can You Accelerate the Process?
If you’re hoping to fast-track your treatment, here are a few ways to potentially shorten the timeline:
- Choose a clinic with same-day crown technology. Not every practice offers this, but if they do, it can save you weeks.
- Book both appointments early if going the traditional route. That way you won’t get stuck waiting longer than necessary. It’s unlikely that you’ll have to wait long, but it’s better to stay on the safe side.
- Stay on top of oral hygiene. If your tooth or gums are inflamed or infected, treatment might need to be delayed until everything is stable. Better get things under control with care.
- Communicate with your dentist. Let them know your timeline, and they’ll do their best to accommodate urgent needs. This is more commonly the case if the crown is for a front tooth or needed before travel or an event.
In some cases, like emergency dental work or cosmetic needs before a wedding, dentists may be able to expedite the crown process or use a temporary solution until the final one is ready.
Final Thoughts
So, how long does a crown take? For most people, the entire process takes about two to three weeks with two dental appointments using the traditional method. However, if your clinic offers same-day crowns, you could walk in and out with a brand-new crown in just a few hours.
Each option has its advantages. Traditional crowns tend to offer more material choices and lab precision, while same-day crowns offer unmatched convenience and immediacy.
The best choice for you will depend on your dental needs, schedule, and preferences. Whichever route you take, the end result is the same—a strong, functional tooth that looks and feels natural. Book a consultation with our friendly team today to explore your options. Let’s make your next visit simple, stress-free, and smile-worthy! Contact us today.