How Long Does It Take to Get a Crown?

Crowns are one of the most frequently used restorations to fix broken, damaged, or weakened teeth. If you are a candidate for a crown, the first question that pops into your head might be: how long does it take to get a crown?

The answer has many variables including the type of crown chosen, the technology used by your dental professional, and whether any other dental work needs to be done first.

In this all-in-one blog article—

 What is a dental crown, and why is it done?
 Types of dental crowns
 The steps to getting a crown
 Timeline: traditional crowns vs. same day crowns
Recovery time and aftercare
 Common mistakes to avoid
 Frequently asked questions

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a cap that is tooth-shaped and will fit perfectly over an existing tooth. It serves to restore the shape, size, strength, and appearance of a tooth. Crowns can be custom made so that they fit tightly over the tooth and, although they lie above the gum line, they cover the tooth.

A crown may be recommended in the following circumstances:

• You have a cracked or fractured tooth

• The cavity is too large to fill

• You have had a root canal

• You have a tooth worn down from grinding (bruxism)

• You want to enhance the appearance of a discolored or misshapen tooth

Types of Dental Crowns

Crowns are not all the same, and the type of crown you have will influence how long the crown process will take, and how long it will last.

• Porcelain Crowns — Recommended for the front teeth because of their natural appearance. However, they may take longer to get ready.

• Metal Crowns — Extremely durable, usually either gold or metal alloys, and they usually take less time to prepare.

• Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns — Strong like metal crowns, but appear more natural.

• Zirconia Crowns — Durable and aesthetic; often can be built in one appointment.

• Same-Day Crowns (CEREC Crowns) — Made in the dentist’s office using CAD/CAM technology and delivered in just one day.

Step by Step Dental Crown Process

The way you achieve a crown will vary based on whether you are getting a regular crown or a same-day crown.

1. Consultation (30–60 minutes)

• Dentist examines your tooth with X-rays.

• Determines if you need additional treatment (root canal, filling, gum treatment).

• You and your dentist discuss the crown type.

2. Tooth Preparation (60–90 minutes)

• Local anesthesia is given.

• Dentist reshapes the tooth to create space for the crown.

• If the tooth is extensively damaged, filling material is added.

3. Impressions (15–30 minutes)

• Taken with putty mold or digital scan.

• Sent to a dental lab for traditional crowns.

4. Temporary Crown (Optional, 1–2 weeks wear)

• A temporary crown is placed while waiting for the permanent one.

• Requires careful maintenance as it is less strong.

5. Placement of Permanent Crown (30–60 minutes)

• Temporary crown is removed.

• Permanent crown is checked for fit and bite.

• Cemented in place permanently.

Timeline: Traditional Crowns vs. Same-Day Crowns

Here’s how long each crown usually takes:

 Traditional Crowns:

• First visit: 1.5–2 hours (prep + temporary crown)

• Waiting period: 1–3 weeks (lab-made crown)

• Second visit: 30–60 minutes (placement)

• Total time: 2–3 weeks

 Same-Day Crowns (CEREC):

• Entire process completed in one visit (2–4 hours)

• No temporary crown required

• Total time: 1 day

 Summary: Traditionally = 2–3 weeks, Same-day = 1 day.

How Long Does It Take to Recover After a Crown?

Most patients recover quickly.

• First 24–48 hours: Mild discomfort, sensitivity to hot/cold, gum soreness (manageable with OTC pain relief).

• 1 week: Crown feels more natural, chewing easier.

• 2 weeks: Fully adjusted to the crown.

• Long-term: With proper care, crowns last 10–15 years or more.

Aftercare Suggestions for a New Crown

To extend the life of your dental crown:

• Brush & floss daily – especially around the crown.

• Avoid hard foods – e.g., ice, hard candy, nuts.

• Limit staining foods/drinks – coffee, tea, red wine.

• Wear a night guard – if you grind teeth.

• Regular dental check-ups – every 6 months.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

 Ignoring temporary crown care (sticky/hard foods).
 Not checking persistent pain or discomfort.
 Waiting too long for permanent crown placement.
 Skipping oral hygiene, which may cause decay under the crown.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long does it take to get a crown from start to finish?

Traditional crowns take 2–3 weeks, while same-day crowns are completed in one visit.

2. Does getting a crown hurt?

No. Local anesthesia prevents pain; some sensitivity afterward is normal.

3. How long do crowns last?

Typically 10–15 years, but with good care, they can last 20+ years.

4. Can I eat right after I get a crown?

With a permanent crown – yes, after a few hours. With a temporary crown – stick to soft foods.

5. Which is better traditional or same-day crowns?

Same-day crowns are faster, but traditional crowns may offer stronger material options.

Conclusion

So, how long does it take to get a crown?

• Traditional Crowns: 2–3 weeks (two appointments).

• Same-Day Crowns: 1 appointment (2–4 hours).

 Key Points to Remember:

• Dental crowns restore function, strength, and appearance.

• Traditional crowns = more time, but wider material options.

• Same-day crowns = fast, convenient, immediate results.

• Crowns last 10+ years with good oral care.

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