CEREC crowns make it possible to have a high-quality restoration made and placed on your tooth in just a single appointment. This has become an increasingly popular option for quickly repairing damaged teeth, but plenty of people still have questions about it. If you’re interested in learning more about CEREC crowns, you can find the answers to 4 common questions about the treatment below.
1. What Exactly is CEREC?
CEREC is short for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics. Simply put, it is advanced technology that gives dentists the ability to design and manufacture dental crowns in-office. The system involves a digital camera for capturing images of the teeth, special software for determining the right size and shape for the restoration, and a milling unit that can create a crown out of a block of ceramic material.
2. When are CEREC Crowns Recommended?
You may qualify for a CEREC crown if you are suffering from a dental issue that could potentially be fixed with a traditional crown; this can include a tooth that has been weakened or badly damaged in an accident. It should be noted, though, that a CEREC crown can only be made out of ceramic. If you want a crown consisting of gold or another material, a traditionally made restoration may be the better choice.
3. What are the Advantages of CEREC Crowns?
The most obvious advantage of CEREC crowns is how much time they can save you, as they typically only require a single appointment. On top of that, they are made out of high-quality materials that closely resemble natural tooth enamel. So not only can they last for a long time, but they can blend in seamlessly with your other teeth, allowing you to continue to show off your smile with the utmost confidence.
4. What is the Lifespan of a CEREC Crown?
On average, CEREC crowns can be expected to last around 10 to 15 years. Of course, the exact lifespan of your own crown can vary. The care that you give to your restoration on a daily basis will help determine how long it ultimately lasts. To that end, don’t forget to brush your CEREC crown (along with the rest of your smile) at least twice a day. Additionally, be sure to visit your dentist every six months so that they can check on your crown and see if there are any problems developing.
About the Author
Dr. Tavi Henry is a graduate of the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine. He has completed hundreds of hours of continuing education, and he made a point of keeping up with the latest dental technology, which includes the CEREC system for making same-day dental crowns. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Henry at Dedicated Dentistry in Lakewood, visit her website or call (303) 984-1400.