Dental crowns serve as restorative treatments to protect and enhance damaged teeth. Two primary methods exist for their fabrication: chairside fabrication, resulting in immediate placement, and laboratory-processed crowns, requiring a separate appointment. The critical question lies in whether crowns produced within a single visit offer comparable quality and longevity to those crafted in a dental laboratory. The focus centers on material properties, fabrication techniques, and ultimately, clinical performance.
The selection of a suitable crown impacts a patient’s oral health, comfort, and aesthetic appearance. Understanding the differences in strength, durability, and fit between these types is paramount for informed decision-making. Historically, laboratory-fabricated crowns have been the standard, allowing for a wider range of materials and potentially more intricate designs. However, advancements in digital dentistry have led to significant improvements in chairside crown technology, presenting a viable alternative with the added benefit of time efficiency.
