Need a dental crown? You may be wondering whether to choose a same-day crown or a traditional crown. While both restore damaged teeth, they differ in timing, technology, materials, and convenience. At Uptown Guelph Dental, we offer both options and this guide will help you decide which is best for your smile.
We proudly serve patients from Guelph North, Downtown Guelph, Kitchener-Waterloo, and Fergus & Elora, offering same-day CEREC crowns and conventional lab-made restorations.
Crown Comparison at a Glance
- Same-day crowns are completed in 1 visit using CEREC CAD/CAM technology
- Traditional crowns take 2–3 weeks and require temporary crowns
- Both options use strong, natural-looking materials (like porcelain or zirconia)
- Insurance coverage is usually similar for both
- Your choice depends on case complexity, timing, and personal preference
What Is a Same-Day Crown?
Same-day crowns are designed, milled, and placed in one visit using digital technology. At Uptown Guelph Dental, we use the CEREC system, which includes:
- 3D digital scanning (no messy impressions)
- CAD software to design the crown in real time
- In-office milling unit to create your crown on the spot
Most patients are in and out within 60–90 minutes, with no need for a temporary crown or follow-up.
Learn more in our Same-Day Crowns
What Is a Traditional Crown?
Traditional crowns are created at a dental lab and typically require two visits:
- First visit: We prepare your tooth, take an impression, and place a temporary crown
- Lab takes 1–2 weeks to fabricate the crown
- Second visit: Temporary is removed and the permanent crown is bonded in place
This approach is often used when:
- Additional customization is needed
- You have complex bite issues
- Materials not available in-office are preferred
Same-Day vs Traditional Crowns
| Feature | Same-Day Crown | Traditional Crown |
|---|---|---|
|
Visits Required
|
One |
Two or more
|
|
Temporary Crown
|
Not needed
|
Required |
|
Technology Used
|
CEREC CAD/CAM
|
Physical molds and lab work
|
|
Wait Time
|
1–2 hours
|
1–3 weeks
|
|
Comfort |
Digital scan
|
Manual impression
|
|
Ideal For |
Moderate cracks, cosmetic fixes
|
Complex bite or multi-tooth
|
|
Longevity |
10–15+ years
|
10–15+ years
|
Materials Used for Each Option
Both crown types can be made with highly durable, natural-looking materials:
Same-Day Crown Options:
- Porcelain
- E.max (lithium disilicate ceramic)
- Zirconia
- Hybrid ceramic
Traditional Crown Options:
- Zirconia
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM)
- Full gold (for back teeth)
- Layered aesthetic ceramics (multi-shade lab-crafted)
If you have strong cosmetic or bite requirements, traditional lab crowns may allow additional layering or artistry. However, CEREC crowns are more than sufficient for most cases.
Cost & Insurance Coverage
Cost per crown:
- Same-Day: $800–$1,500
- Traditional: $900–$1,600 (may include lab and temporary fees)
Insurance coverage:
- Both are covered under standard crown benefits in most dental plans
- We provide pre-authorizations and billing assistance
For pricing transparency, see our Smile Makeover Cost Guide
Which One Is Right for You?
Choose Same-Day Crowns if you:
- Want a quick, efficient solution
- Have one or two damaged teeth
- Prefer digital scans over impressions
- Value convenience and a fast result
Choose Traditional Crowns if you:
- Need complex bite or multi-tooth work
- Prefer gold or layered ceramics
- Don’t mind a 2-visit process
We’ll help you decide based on your clinical needs, cosmetic goals, and time constraints.
FAQs
Yes. With proper care, CEREC crowns can last 10–15+ years, just like lab-made ones.
No. Both feel natural once placed and polished properly.
Not at all. We use local anesthesia and make the experience comfortable.
Not usually. In fact, they may save money by avoiding lab or temporary crown fees.
Yes, we often provide same-day crowns for urgent cracked or broken teeth.
Book a Crown Consultation in Guelph
At Uptown Guelph Dental, you have options. Whether you prefer a high-tech same-day experience or a traditional multi-step approach, we’ll help you choose the best crown for your smile, schedule, and budget.
📍 Visit: Uptown Guelph Dental, Woodlawn Road West, Guelph, ON, Canada
