What is the difference in lab-made dental crown and in-office made dental crowns ?
The main difference between lab-made dental crowns and in-office made crowns lies in the location where they are fabricated. Lab-made dental crowns are created in a dental laboratory by a dental technician, while in-office made crowns are fabricated on-site by a dentist using computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology.
Lab-made dental crowns are typically made from materials such as porcelain, zirconia, or metal alloys. After the dentist takes impressions of the patient’s teeth, the impressions are sent to a dental laboratory where a dental technician creates a custom-made crown that fits the patient’s tooth precisely. The process usually takes a few days, and the patient will need to wear a temporary crown in the meantime.
In contrast, in-office made crowns are created using CAD/CAM technology. After taking impressions of the patient’s teeth, the dentist uses computer software to design a custom crown. The design is then sent to an on-site milling machine, which creates the crown out of a block of material, typically ceramic or resin. The entire process can often be completed in a single dental appointment, allowing the patient to leave with a new crown on the same day.
Both types of crowns can be highly durable and provide long-lasting results when properly cared for. However, there are some differences in terms of convenience, cost, and customization. Lab-made crowns may offer more customization options, as a dental technician can carefully craft the crown to match the shape, size, and color of the patient’s natural teeth. In-office made crowns may be more convenient for patients who want to avoid multiple dental appointments, while lab-made crowns may be more cost-effective for patients who have dental insurance or want to explore different material options.
Modern Smiles Dental Care
Burlington MA Dentist Sarita Malhotra, BDS, DMD, practices a full scope of general and cosmetic dentistry with expertise ranging from porcelain veneers to dental implants, crowns and bridges. Dr. Malhotra can now correct a wide variety of so-called permanent cosmetic dental problems, and can literally redesign your smile.