CEREC crowns offer a faster, more convenient option for dental restoration. With CEREC technology, (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) your dentist can create a custom-fit crown right in the office, eliminating the need for multiple appointments and temporary crowns.
But what exactly are CEREC crowns, and how do they work? In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about CEREC crowns, including their benefits, the process of getting one, and what to expect from this game-changing dental technology.
Traditional Dental Crown Process vs. CEREC Crown Process
Before we dive into the specifics of CEREC crowns, let’s compare the traditional dental crown process to the CEREC crown process. The traditional process involves multiple visits to the dentist. During the first visit, the dentist takes impressions of your teeth, prepares the tooth for the crown, and places a temporary crown. The impressions are sent to a lab, where the permanent crown is made. You return to the dentist’s office a few weeks later to have the permanent crown installed.
In contrast, the CEREC crown process can be completed in just one visit to the dentist’s office. The dentist takes a 3D digital scan of your teeth and uses computer-aided design (CAD) software to create a virtual model of the crown. The virtual model is sent to a milling machine, which creates the crown from a block of ceramic material. The crown is then polished and installed on the same day.
Advantages of CEREC Crowns
The advantages of CEREC crowns are numerous. As mentioned earlier, the entire process can be completed in just one visit to the dentist’s office. This means you don’t have to take time off work or schedule multiple appointments. Additionally, there’s no need for uncomfortable temporary crowns, which can fall out or cause discomfort.
CEREC crowns are also more precise than traditional crowns. The digital scan allows for a more accurate fit, and the milling machine can create a crown that perfectly matches the color and shape of your other teeth. The ceramic material used to create CEREC crowns is also more durable than the materials used in traditional crowns, which means they last longer and are less likely to crack or chip.
How CEREC Crowns Are Made
Now that we’ve discussed the advantages of CEREC crowns, let’s dive into how they’re made. As mentioned earlier, the process starts with a 3D digital scan of your teeth. The dentist uses a special camera to take multiple images of your teeth, which are combined to create a virtual model of your mouth.
Using CAD software, the dentist designs the crown to fit perfectly on your tooth. The software takes into account the shape and size of your tooth, as well as the alignment of your jaw and bite. Once the design is complete, the virtual model is sent to a milling machine, which carves the crown out of a block of ceramic material.
After the crown is milled, it’s polished to give it a natural appearance. The dentist then installs the crown on your tooth, making any necessary adjustments to ensure a perfect fit. The entire process typically takes a few hours, and you can leave the dentist’s office with a fully functional crown.
Caring for Your CEREC Crowns
Caring for your CEREC crowns is similar to caring for your natural teeth. You should brush and floss regularly and avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods. It’s also important to visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups.
While CEREC crowns are more durable than traditional crowns, they’re not indestructible. If you grind your teeth or participate in contact sports, you may need to wear a mouthguard to protect your crowns. Additionally, if you notice any cracks or chips in your crowns, you should visit your dentist as soon as possible to have them repaired.
CEREC Crowns in Vero Beach, Florida
CEREC crowns have revolutionized the way dental crowns are made and installed. They offer numerous advantages over traditional crowns, including a more precise fit, a faster process, and a more durable material.
With CEREC crowns, you can say goodbye to multiple dental visits and hello to a perfect smile. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact us at 772-569-4118.
