How Long Does It Really Take to Get a Dental Crown?

If your dentist has recommended a crown, you might be wondering how much time you’ll need to set aside. A crown restores a damaged tooth, strengthens it, and improves appearance. The answer depends on whether you’re getting a traditional crown or a same-day crown. Searching for a dentist near me can connect you with offices that offer both options.

What Is a Dental Crown and Why Might You Need One?

A dental crown is a highly custom-made cap that covers the seeable part of a tooth. It restores shape, strength, and function when a tooth is weakened or broken.

You may need a crown if:

• A cavity is too large for a filling
• A tooth is cracked or fractured
• You’ve had a root canal
• You want to improve the look of a discolored or misshapen tooth

Crowns not only protect your teeth but also help maintain your bite and smile.

Timeline for a Traditional Dental Crown: Step-by-Step

Traditional crowns usually take two visits spread over a couple of weeks. Here’s how the dental crowns treatment process works:

Visit 1 – Preparation and Temporary Crown

• The dentist numbs your tooth and removes any decay
• The tooth is reshaped so the crown will fit properly
• An impression or scan is taken of your teeth
• A temporary crown is fixed to safeguard your tooth

Visit 2 – Final Crown Placement

• Usually scheduled about two weeks later
• The temporary crown is removed
• The permanent crown is fitted, nicely adjusted, and cemented in place

From start to finish, traditional crowns can take about 2–3 weeks, depending on the dental lab’s turnaround time.

How Long Does a Same-Day Crown Take?

Advances in technology now make it possible to walk out with a crown in just one visit. Offices that offer same-day crowns use digital scans and milling machines to design and create your crown on-site.

Timeline for same-day crowns:

• Tooth preparation: 30–45 minutes
• Digital scan and design: 15–30 minutes
• Milling the crown: 1–2 hours
• Placement and adjustment: 30 minutes

On average, the entire appointment takes about 2–4 hours. The biggest advantage is skipping the temporary crown and second visit.

Factors That Can Affect How Long the Process Takes

The time needed for a crown isn’t the same for everyone. Several factors can influence the timeline:

• Tooth condition: Heavily damaged teeth may take longer to prepare
• Type of crown material: Porcelain, metal, and ceramic all have different timelines
• Technology available: Not every office offers same-day crowns
• Complexity of your bite: Adjustments may be needed to make sure your crown feels natural

Your dentist will discuss these factors before treatment so you know what to expect.

Can You Get a Crown the Same Day After a Root Canal?

Many patients ask whether a crown can be placed immediately after a root canal. The answer depends on the situation.

• In a few cases, a same-day crown can be placed right after a root canal if the tooth is stable.
• Other times, dentists recommend waiting a short period to ensure proper healing before placing the permanent crown.
• A temporary crown may be used if more healing time is needed.

If you’re getting dental crowns in Northlake, your dentist will create a plan that balances speed with long-term success.

Quick List: Traditional vs. Same-Day Crowns

Traditional Crowns

• Require 2 visits
• Temporary crown in between
• 2–3 weeks total timeline

Same-Day Crowns

• Done in 1 visit
• No temporary crown
• 2–4 hours start to finish

Both options are effective. The right choice depends on your schedule, needs, and whether same-day technology is available at your dental office.

Final Thoughts

The time it takes to get a crown varies, but whether you choose traditional or same-day, the goal is the same: a strong, natural-looking restoration that lasts. Same-day crowns offer speed and convenience, while traditional crowns remain a reliable solution for more complex cases. At Smiles of Northlake, patients receive crowns designed for comfort, durability, and a healthy smile that lasts.