When it comes to restoring a damaged or compromised tooth, your dentist may recommend a lab-fabricated crown. Unlike same-day crowns, lab-fabricated crowns are created in an off-site dental laboratory using precise impressions of your teeth. These crowns are highly durable, aesthetically pleasing, and tailored to meet your specific needs. Choosing the right type of crown depends on the location of the tooth, your bite, and your aesthetic preferences.

Types of Lab-Fabricated Crowns

  1. BruxZir Crown
     BruxZir crowns are made from solid zirconia, one of the strongest materials available for dental restorations. These crowns are ideal for back teeth (molars) that endure heavy biting forces, as they are incredibly durable and resistant to cracking or chipping. While they are slightly less translucent than natural teeth, they are still a good option for patients who prioritize strength over aesthetics.
  2. BruxZir Esthetic Crown
     BruxZir Esthetic crowns are a more advanced version of the traditional BruxZir crown. They are made from zirconia but are specially designed to mimic the natural appearance of teeth with greater translucency and lifelike shading. These crowns are perfect for front teeth or highly visible areas of the mouth where aesthetics are crucial.
  3. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crown
     PFM crowns combine a metal base for strength with a porcelain overlay to provide a natural appearance. They’ve been used for decades and remain a reliable choice. While PFMs offer both durability and aesthetics, over time, the metal substructure may become visible at the gumline, especially if the gums recede. Dentists may choose PFMs for areas where both strength and a natural look are needed, but they are less commonly used today due to advancements in all-ceramic crowns like BruxZir.

Why a Dentist Chooses One Crown Over Another

  • BruxZir crowns are ideal for patients with heavy grinding or clenching habits (bruxism) or for teeth in the back of the mouth where durability is the top priority.
  • BruxZir Esthetic crowns are chosen for visible teeth that require both strength and a lifelike appearance.
  • PFM crowns may still be selected for patients who have specific needs or preferences, such as a strong history of successful PFM restorations or insurance coverage considerations.

What to Expect During a Lab-Fabricated Crown Appointment

The process of receiving a lab-fabricated crown typically involves two appointments:

  1. First Appointment
    • The dentist prepares your tooth by removing any decay or damage and shaping it to fit the crown.
    • An impression or digital scan is taken of your tooth and sent to the lab, where the crown will be fabricated.
    • A temporary crown is placed over your prepared tooth to protect it while you wait for your permanent crown. The temporary crown is made from a resin material and is not as durable as the final crown, so extra care is needed.
  2. Second Appointment (usually 2–3 weeks later)
    • Once the lab sends back the completed crown, the dentist removes the temporary crown and checks the fit, shape, and color of the permanent crown. Adjustments are made if necessary before cementing the crown permanently onto your tooth.

Caring for Your Temporary Crown

While you wait for your permanent crown, it’s important to take care of your temporary crown to avoid damage or discomfort:

  • Avoid eating sticky or hard foods that could dislodge or break the temporary crown.
  • Brush gently around the temporary crown and use a soft toothbrush to avoid irritating the area.
  • When flossing, slide the floss out rather than pulling it up to prevent loosening the crown.
  • If the temporary crown becomes loose or falls off, contact your dentist immediately to have it re-cemented.

Lab Turnaround Time

The turnaround time for lab-fabricated crowns is typically 2–3 weeks, depending on the dental lab and the material chosen. During this time, the lab technicians carefully craft the crown to ensure it fits perfectly and blends seamlessly with your natural teeth.

With proper care and maintenance, your lab-fabricated crown can provide many years of function, comfort, and beauty, restoring your smile and confidence.