Same-day dentistry refers to complete dental procedures in a single appointment, typically within a few hours. This approach is made possible by advancements in technology, materials, and dental techniques, allowing specific dental procedures to be performed more efficiently and conveniently. At First Smile Family Dental, same-day dentistry offers the advantage of completing dental treatments in a shorter timeframe. It can be particularly beneficial for patients with busy schedules or who prefer to minimize the required dental visits. Additionally, it reduces the need for wearing temporary restorations, which may be less comfortable and require extra care.
The Benefits of Same-Day Dentistry
Immediate Results
One of the primary advantages of same-day dentistry is that patients can walk out of the dental office with their completed treatment on the same day. This can be especially beneficial for restorative procedures such as dental crowns, veneers, or dental bridges, as patients don't have to wear temporary restorations or wait an extended period to receive their permanent restorations.
Time Savings
Same-day dentistry saves time by eliminating the need for multiple dental appointments. Instead of scheduling separate visits for treatment planning, preparation, and placement, patients can do everything in one visit. This is particularly convenient for individuals with busy schedules or living far from the dental office.
Advanced Technology
Same-day dentistry often utilizes advanced dental technology, such as CAD/CAM (computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing) systems. These systems allow dentists to create digital impressions, design restorations digitally, and fabricate them in the dental office using milling machines or 3D printers. This streamlined process enables faster turnaround times for restorations.
The Procedure for Same-Day Dentistry
If your treatment involves a dental restoration like a crown, veneer, or inlay/onlay, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decayed or damaged areas. They will shape the tooth to create space for restoration. Local anesthesia may be used to ensure your comfort during the preparation process.
Instead of using traditional putty-like materials, the dentist will use a handheld intraoral scanner to take digital impressions of your prepared tooth and the surrounding teeth. The scanner captures precise 3D images, creating a virtual model of your mouth. The digital impressions are then used to design your dental restoration on a computer using CAD/CAM software. The dentist will customize the restoration to fit your unique dental anatomy and aesthetic preferences. They can make real-time adjustments and modifications to ensure optimal results. Once the design is finalized, the dentist will transfer the digital design to an in-house milling machine or 3D printer. The machine will fabricate the restoration from a block of dental material, such as ceramic or composite resin. The milling or printing process typically takes a short time, usually within an hour.
After the restoration is milled or printed, the dentist will make any necessary final adjustments and refinements to ensure a precise fit and proper bite alignment. They will then bond or cement the restoration to your tooth using dental adhesives or resin-based materials. The restoration will be carefully positioned and checked for aesthetics and functionality.
Same-day dentistry utilizes advanced dental technology and techniques to provide immediate dental care and complete procedures in a single visit. For more information about same-day dentistry, visit First Smile Family Dental at 32717 1st Ave S., Suite 9, Federal Way, WA 98003, or call (253) 785-7323.