In short
- 01Single visitDiagnosis, planning and treatment are completed in one appointment instead of several.
- 02CAD/CAM restorationsComputer-aided design and manufacturing let dentists create and place restorations such as crowns in a single visit.
- 03Not for every caseComplex cases or extensive treatment plans may still need multiple visits.
Same-day treatment, also called single-visit dentistry, completes a dental procedure in a single appointment rather than several. It particularly suits patients with limited time, such as those travelling for treatment or living far from the practice.
What same-day treatment means
Same-day treatment condenses diagnosis, treatment planning and the procedure itself into one appointment, instead of the multiple visits a traditional dental procedure would usually need.
Advantages of same-day treatment
The main benefit is the time saved for both patient and dentist: steps that would normally be spread across several visits happen in one appointment. This is particularly useful for dental emergencies such as a sudden toothache, a chipped tooth or a lost filling, where patients can be treated without a long wait. It also cuts down on the number of appointments needed overall, which especially suits patients travelling for treatment with limited time, or those who live far from the practice.
Treatments offered on the same day
Dental treatments commonly completed in a single visit include:
- Cavity fillings
- Dental crowns
- Root canal therapy
- Bonding
- Laser treatment for gummy smile
- Tooth extractions
- Teeth whitening (office bleaching)
- Bone augmentation
- Temporary crowns
Same-day treatment suits straightforward procedures particularly well, such as cavity fillings. CAD/CAM technology (computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing) lets dentists design and place a restoration, such as a filling, in a single visit.
The technology behind same-day treatment
CAD/CAM technology is used to create dental restorations such as crowns, bridges and veneers. It removes the need for traditional impressions and allows precise, custom-fit restorations to be made in a single visit. The CEREC system (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) is one such technology: it lets dentists design, create and place ceramic restorations, such as crowns and veneers, in a single appointment.
Laser technology offers minimally invasive alternatives for some procedures, including cavity preparation, soft-tissue procedures and teeth whitening, and is often associated with faster healing and less discomfort.
Patient experience
Same-day treatment reduces the overall time spent in the dental chair. Knowing that a procedure will be completed in a single visit can also ease the anxiety that comes with multiple appointments. Restorations are custom-made, and adjustments can be made immediately during the same visit if needed.
With any surgical or interventional procedure, results can vary from person to person.
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Frequently asked questions
Is same-day treatment suitable for everyone?
While same-day treatment suits many patients, it isn't always the right choice for complex cases or extensive treatment plans. Your oral health, the nature of the procedure, and whether specialised laboratory support is available all affect whether it's suitable.
Are there any limitations or considerations for same-day treatment?
Yes. The complexity of the procedure and the need for specialised laboratory support are both considerations, so it's worth discussing these with your dentist before opting for same-day treatment.
Can children benefit from same-day treatment?
Yes, particularly for dental emergencies or simpler procedures such as cavity fillings. Suitability depends on the specific issue and on the child's ability to cooperate during the procedure.
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