When it comes to crown tooth procedure, managing your schedule can be a major deciding factor in which option you end up going for. Let's take a look at the various steps involved in a tooth crown procedure and the possible parameters that will influence the time you may need to invest.
Whether you are getting a crown tooth procedure after root canal or after a chipped tooth, the stages involved in getting a dental crown replacement are as follows:
This is when your dentist evaluates the tooth that needs a dental crown. Dental x-rays may be taken to assess the integrity of the tooth structure, root canals, adjacent teeth and the surrounding bone. In some cases, multiple crowns may be needed for front and/or back teeth and this would mean more time involved. If multiple adjacent are to be crowned, dental bridges maybe the option to consider.
This involves reshaping the tooth to accommodate the crown. This is an essential step to ensure that:
Your dentist will also take digital or physical impressions of the prepared tooth. At Dental Designs Clinic, we follow a fully digital workflow. This means that we avoid the use of messy and uncomfortable physical impressions. Rather, we utilise modern dental technology such as a digital scanner to take digital impressions of your teeth for your comfort and ease.
The final result depends on the type of crown used ceramic crowns, metal crowns, or traditional crowns. CAD/CAM technology now allows for same day dental crowns, offering speed and precision. Each crown is custom-made to match the tooth to restore its shape, size, and function effectively.
After the digital impressions are taken, your crown is sent to our in-house lab. Thanks to our in-house lab, the turnaround time is greatly reduced and we are therefore able to deliver your down in the same day! When your permanent crown is ready, the temporary crown is removed. The dental crown procedure restores the natural tooth to its original shape, size, and strength.
The crown fitting and cementation is done on the same day at Dental Designs Clinic. At conventional dental clinics, this process differs and they may or may not have a same day crown option. Factors that determine if a same day crown is possible is as follows:
| Crown Material | Description | Same-Day Option Available? | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) | Strong inner metal with tooth-colored porcelain exterior | ❌ No | Back teeth needing strength and aesthetics |
| Zirconia | Durable, tooth-coloured, metal-free | ✅ Yes | Back/Posterior teeth, bruxism cases |
| E-max (Lithium Disilicate) | Aesthetic, strong ceramic material | ✅ Yes | Front teeth and premolars, cosmetic cases |
| Gold / Metal Alloy | Extremely durable but less aesthetic | ❌ No | Molars, patients prioritising longevity |
| Resin (Temporary use) | Quick, low-cost material used for temporary crowns | ✅ Yes | Short-term use before permanent crown |
Failing to crown a weakened or treated tooth can lead to serious consequences. Here’s what may happen if you delay or skip the crown:
| Risk | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Tooth Fracture | Teeth that have undergone large fillings or root canals are structurally weaker and more prone to cracking or breaking without a crown. |
| Tooth Loss | If the fracture extends below the gum line or into the root, the tooth may become unsalvageable and require extraction. |
| Reinfection After Root Canal | A crown seals the tooth after root canal treatment—without it, bacteria can re-enter and cause infection or abscess. |
| Ongoing Sensitivity or Pain | Exposed or thin tooth structure can cause long-term discomfort, especially with temperature changes or chewing. |
| Worsening Alignment Issues | A compromised tooth can shift or cause bite imbalances, affecting adjacent teeth and jaw function. |
| Increased Treatment Costs Later | Avoiding a crown may lead to the need for more complex (and costly) treatments later—like implants, bridges, or even full mouth rehab. |
With digital CEREC technology, it’s now possible to get a CAD CAM crown in a single day. These tooth-shaped caps are milled from high-quality materials like ceramic and can be fitted within a few hours.
Pros:
No temporary crown needed, reducing the need for added cost and time
Quicker treatment completion
Fewer dental visits
Cons:
Not all materials can be fabricated as a same day crown
Not suitable for every case
In most traditional cases, the crown procedure involves two appointments spaced a few weeks apart, with each visit lasting around an hour or two. If everything goes smoothly, you’ll have your crown within 2 to 4 weeks total. For same day crown systems, you can walk out with your new smile in just a few hours.
Understanding the timeline, the materials involved, and your dental condition will help you better plan and set realistic expectations for your treatment.
If you're considering Prosthodontic treatment in Singapore, schedule a consultation with our compassionate dental team. Let’s restore your comfort and protect your smile one tooth at a time.