How the CEREC System Works to Give Same-Day Crowns
The quick answer:
CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) uses computer-aided design to create a crown tooth restoration at the dentist’s office in one visit.
Yes, you read that right:
Just one visit!
The crowns are made in the office while you wait.
But let’s back up.
Before CEREC, patients had to come in for messy impressions – which the dentist sends to an outside lab – and wear a temporary crown in the meantime. Then they’d have to come back to the office for the finished crown a few weeks later.
Yikes! As if needing a tooth restoration wasn’t enough of a problem.
Talk about an inconvenience!
Things have definitely improved…
So who do we have to thank for this new-and-improved way of creating crowns?
The CAD/CAM computer software coupled with the Sirona milling machine make this all possible.
And, of course, the highly trained dentist you choose to work with. Let’s not forget him or her!
At Keystone Dentistry, we’ve been helping patients improve their smiles for years and will help you understand how tooth restorations with CEREC work.
Let’s dive deeper.
How the CEREC system works (a more in-depth explanation):
If you need a crown due to tooth loss or damage or need a crown replacement, then your restorative dentist who offers CEREC typically follows these steps:
- Step 1: The mouth is prepped and scanned to create a 3D image of your teeth.
- Step 2: Your crown is designed (based on your tooth size and shape), and the information is sent to the milling machine.
- Step 3: The dentist chooses a matching color ceramic, and the machine crafts the custom crown in this material.
- Step 4: Your dentist fits the crown, checks for comfort, and bonds it to the tooth.
The CEREC implant crown steps are similar to the above, but instead of adhering the crown to the tooth, the crown is attached to the connector (AKA abutment) on the dental implant.
Sounds easy, right?
The best part:
What used to take weeks to complete now only requires a few hours with one visit.
It’s not magic. It’s technology!
Answers to some top questions about CEREC crowns:
What are the benefits of CEREC system crowns?
There are many benefits of CEREC crowns; these include:
- A natural look and feel
- Improved oral health
- Restored tooth structure and function
- Quick restoration of one or multiple teeth
- Long-lasting with proper care
How long does a CEREC crown last?
The CEREC crown material is high-quality and durable. It can last for 10-15 years or even longer with great dental care.
To help your crown last longer:
- Maintain hygiene at home with good brushing and flossing.
- Visit the dentist every six months for a cleaning and check-up where your dentist assesses the crown’s integrity.
- Avoid grinding your teeth with a nightguard if needed.
Are CEREC crowns good for molars or front teeth?
CEREC crowns are good for molars and front teeth. The material is strong and provides the structure and support your mouth needs.
But they also look entirely natural and are made to match your existing teeth, so nobody has to know about your dental work.
(Your secret is safe with us.)
It’s important to note these types of CEREC crowns differ from traditional crowns because they’re made quickly and aren’t available in a metal material.
CEREC only uses a tooth-colored ceramic material.
But you know what is the same between the two types of crowns?
A CEREC crown works just as well as a traditional one to protect a weak tooth, restore a broken or worn tooth, or cover a large filling that needs structure.
Isn’t the new-and-improved system awesome?
You don’t have to sacrifice quality for a quick turn-around with CEREC.
And there’s more…
The milling machine… opens in a new window to Dentsply Sirona website… can also provide other tooth restoration options.
For a partial tooth restoration, consider the CEREC onlay vs. crown or even an inlay, depending on the dental issue. Your dentist will help you determine the best tooth restoration for your needs.
Need a CEREC same-day crown in Indianapolis?
Dr. Wayne Kinney and the Keystone Dentistry team offer dental care with the latest technology and ongoing education for faster, better, and safer procedures.
A healthier smile equals improved wellness, and we’re here to help you restore your tooth or multiple teeth with same-day CEREC crowns.
Contact us for a consultation, and we’ll answer any additional questions you have – such as if you’re a candidate for a crown, the cost of a CEREC crown without insurance vs. with insurance, and more.
What are our patients saying about us?
“I have been a patient for many years and love the fact that Dr. Kinney and his staff stay current with innovative techniques. It is one-stop shopping. I love the fact if I need a crown that I can have the permanent one placed the same day!”
-Marjorie N.
We’re here for you and care about you like our own family! We serve the communities of Indianapolis… opens in a new window to Google Maps… and Carmel.
Get a tooth restoration in one day with CEREC system crowns. Contact us today:
- Contact us online to schedule your appointment
- Call us at (317) 575-1120
- Email us directly at reception@keystonedentistry.com
