Same day crowns sound almost unbelievable at first. A tooth that would normally take two weeks to restore can now be scanned, designed and fitted in one appointment. No temporary crown. No waiting. No need to take more time off work. But convenience always raises the same question. If a crown is made so quickly, does it last as long as one made in a traditional dental lab?

The good news is that in most cases it does. Modern same day crowns use the same premium materials and the same principles of design and fit. The difference is the technology used to create them. To understand their lifespan, it helps to look at what actually determines how long any crown survives.

What affects the lifespan of any dental crown

A crown is only as good as the foundations underneath it. A strong tooth structure, healthy gums and precise fit are the main factors that decide how long a crown lasts. Whether the crown is made chair-side or in a lab, the key elements are the same.

These include:

  • The material used
  • The accuracy of the fit
  • How much natural tooth remains
  • Your bite and grinding habits
  • Your oral hygiene and check ups

Same day crowns and traditional crowns both depend on these factors. The method of making the crown does not shorten or weaken its lifespan.

How same day crowns are made with modern digital tools

Same day systems use digital scanners that capture a perfect 3D model of your tooth. This removes the need for messy impressions and reduces human error. The crown is then digitally designed to match your bite and neighbouring teeth.

Once designed, the crown is milled from a solid block of ceramic or zirconia. Milling produces a precise fit and minimal gaps, which is one of the biggest predictors of long term success. A tighter fit means less bacteria, less risk of decay around the edges and fewer long term issues.

Materials used for same day crowns

Same day technology has advanced a lot. In the early days it was mostly limited to ceramic crowns, but now zirconia is widely available in chair-side systems.

Most same day crowns today are made from:

Zirconia

This is one of the strongest dental materials available. It is excellent for molars, people who grind their teeth and anyone who wants maximum durability.

High strength ceramics

These include lithium disilicate, which offers a natural appearance and great strength. It is popular for front teeth and visible areas.

Both zirconia and lithium disilicate are used in traditional lab made crowns as well. There is no difference in the base material that affects longevity.

How long same day crowns last in real world results

Most crowns, including same day crowns and lab made crowns, last between ten and fifteen years, and many continue to function well for twenty years or more. Studies comparing both types show similar survival rates over long periods.

In fact, some research suggests that the improved accuracy of digital scanning may even reduce the risk of leakage or future decay, which can improve long term success.

When to consider lab made crowns instead

Although same day crowns suit most people, there are still a few situations where a traditional lab approach may be ideal.

  • Complex cosmetic cases where a dental technician needs to hand layer porcelain for perfect colour matching
  • Severe gumline issues that require special contouring
  • Unique material requests that can only be produced through a dental lab
  • Teeth that need extra customisation or artistic character for high visibility areas

These cases are the exception, not the rule. Most damaged teeth can be restored beautifully with a same day crown.

Benefits of choosing a same day crown beyond longevity

While lifespan is a major factor, same day crowns come with several extra advantages that appeal to busy patients.

No temporary crown

Temporary crowns can break or fall off. Same day technology skips this step entirely.

Only one appointment

Your same-day crown appointment will generally be 100 minutes or less. This even includes a short break in the middle to have a coffee or go and do the grocery shopping. This means less time off work and less disruption to your week.

Digital scans instead of impressions

Patients who gag or dislike impression material usually prefer digital scanning.

Instant results

If the tooth is painful or broken, you walk out protected on the same day.

How to look after a same day crown to make it last

A well made crown is strong, but good habits help it last even longer. Most dentists recommend:

  • Brushing twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste
  • Cleaning between the teeth with floss or interdental brushes
  • Wearing a night guard if you grind your teeth
  • Avoiding habits like cracking shells, chewing ice or biting fingernails
  • Attending regular check ups to catch any small problems early

Crowns themselves do not decay, but the tooth underneath can. This is why hygiene and check ups matter.

Overall

Same day crowns are not a shortcut and they are not a weaker alternative. They use the same materials as traditional crowns, are designed with impressive digital accuracy and hold up to years of everyday use. When placed on a healthy tooth and cared for properly, they last just as long as lab made crowns.

They are a modern, convenient and reliable solution for damaged teeth, especially for patients who value comfort and convinience.