Can Same-Day Dental Crowns Replace Failed Silver Fillings in Melton?
Case Note ID: Jan-2025-CEREC
Location: Melton Dental House (serving Melton, Rockbank, Kurunjang and surrounding areas)
Primary Treatments: CEREC same-day porcelain crown
Supporting Technology: Digital scanning, CAD/CAM milling system
Presenting Clinical Problem
- Existing amalgam (silver) filling showing signs of breakdown
- Patient concerns about tooth fracture risk
- Desire for tooth-coloured restoration matching natural teeth
- Request for single-appointment treatment to avoid multiple visits
- Primary objective: Restore tooth structure with durable, aesthetic restoration
Treatment Plan & Clinical Process
Phase 1: Assessment and Digital Planning
- Examination of existing filling and surrounding tooth structure
- Evaluation of crack lines or structural weakness
- Discussion of crown versus large filling options
- Digital scanning to capture tooth preparation and surrounding teeth
- Same-appointment workflow explanation
Phase 2: Tooth Preparation and Digital Design
- Removal of old filling material and any decayed tooth structure
- Crown preparation to create adequate space for restoration
- Digital impression using intraoral scanner (no traditional moulds required)
- Computer-aided design of crown matching tooth anatomy and bite
- Shade selection to match adjacent natural teeth
Phase 3: In-Office Crown Fabrication and Placement
- Crown milling from ceramic block whilst patient waits
- Characterisation and polishing of milled restoration
- Trial fitting to verify fit and bite relationship
- Permanent bonding using appropriate cement system
- Final adjustments and polishing
- Typical total appointment time 2-3 hours
Clinical Outcome
Same-day crown technology allowed completion of treatment in a single extended appointment rather than the traditional two-visit approach requiring temporary crowns. The digital workflow eliminates conventional impressions and laboratory fabrication delays. Crown quality depends on case selection, material properties and technical execution.
Individual results vary and cannot be guaranteed. Same-day crowns use different materials than laboratory crowns with slightly different properties. Crowns can chip, fracture or come loose over time, with typical longevity of 10-15 years.
Frequently Asked Questions for Melton Patients
Are same-day crowns as good as laboratory-made crowns?
Same-day crowns use different materials but can provide excellent results for appropriate cases. Laboratory crowns may offer slightly superior aesthetics for very visible front teeth. The main advantage of same-day treatment is convenience and avoiding temporary crowns, not necessarily better quality.
Does the treatment really take just one appointment?
Yes, the entire process from preparation to final crown placement occurs in one extended visit, typically 2-3 hours. You leave with your permanent crown the same day. However, some complex cases may still benefit from traditional two-visit approaches.
Will my crown look natural?
Modern ceramic materials can closely match natural tooth colour and translucency. However, exact colour matching is more challenging than with natural teeth, particularly if adjacent teeth are stained or have varied shading. Most people find the results aesthetically acceptable.
Give us a call at +61 3 8798 9798 or contact us by submitting the enquiry form below. We will be happy to help.
