From Consultation to Care: What You Should Know About CEREC Crowns

CEREC® crowns can restore damaged teeth in a single appointment. These advanced dental crowns are made with precision and tailored to the patient’s smile, allowing them to blend in seamlessly with the rest of the teeth. There is no need for temporary crowns or multiple appointments. With proper planning and guidance, CEREC crowns can provide lasting bite function, smile aesthetics, and comfort.

The consultation: Determining candidacy

A successful outcome with CEREC crowns begins with a detailed consultation. During this initial visit, a general, family, or cosmetic dentist evaluates the health of the affected tooth or teeth, assesses surrounding structures, and confirms whether this restoration is the best solution. 

CEREC stands for chair-side economical restoration of esthetic ceramic, and there are several factors that make it the right choice for a patient. For example, those with decayed, fractured, or worn-down teeth are frequently good candidates, provided the tooth structure is sufficient to support a crown. Candidacy also depends on bite alignment, gum health, and the presence of underlying conditions such as teeth grinding (bruxism) or periodontal disease.

To determine patient candidacy, a dentist will take digital scans and create a three-dimensional image of the patient’s mouth. This detailed imaging allows for accurate visualization and treatment planning. Keep in mind that patients with more complex restorative needs may be better suited to traditional crowns, root canal therapy, or similar treatments.

Pros and cons of CEREC crowns

CEREC crowns provide numerous advantages, especially in terms of time and customization. Their most popular benefit is the ability to provide a permanent restoration in a single dental visit. This eliminates the inconvenience of temporary crowns and the need for a return appointment. Further, the digital imaging used improves accuracy for better-fitting restorations. Dentists also craft CEREC crowns from high-quality ceramic that mimics the appearance of natural teeth, providing excellent aesthetic results.

However, CEREC crowns have some limitations. As mentioned, they are not ideal for cases involving complex bite issues or teeth that require extensive structural repair. In these cases, a dentist may recommend alternative solutions. Despite this, the versatility and efficiency of CEREC crowns make them a preferred option among patients with diverse oral health needs.

Getting CEREC crowns

The process of receiving CEREC crowns is streamlined and typically completed in a few hours. After numbing the treatment area, the dentist removes damaged or decayed material to prepare the tooth. Then, they use a digital scanner to take a precise image of the area, eliminating the need for traditional impressions. This digital model is transferred to CAD/CAM software to design the crown.

Once the crown design is finalized, the dentist sends it to an in-office milling machine that carves the crown from a solid block of ceramic. The entire milling process takes under an hour. After the crown is created, the dentist checks the fit and color before bonding it to the prepared tooth with a strong dental adhesive. The result is a durable and natural-looking restoration that restores both function and appearance immediately.

Caring for CEREC crowns long-term

Proper care lets patients get the most out of their CEREC crowns. Just like natural teeth, these restorations require good oral hygiene practices, including daily brushing and flossing, as well as routine dental cleanings. Using non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft toothbrush can help preserve the smooth surface of the ceramic.

It is also important to avoid habits that may damage the crown. Examples include biting on hard objects, chewing ice, or grinding teeth. For additional protection, the dentist may recommend a night guard for patients who clench or grind their teeth while asleep. Regular visits to a general or family dentist can help detect early signs of wear or complications.

Maintaining a balanced diet and minimizing sugary snacks can further support both the natural teeth and the longevity of CEREC crowns. Dentists may also recommend periodic fluoride treatments or dental sealants to help protect adjacent teeth and gums.

With proper maintenance and regular care from a general, family, or cosmetic dentist, CEREC crowns can last many years. Their durability, combined with a natural look and feel, makes them a valuable investment in long-term dental health.

Learn more about CEREC crowns

Whether dealing with a damaged tooth or planning a smile makeover, CEREC crowns represent a smart and streamlined approach to dental care. With same-day service and high-quality materials, these restorations offer a seamless way to restore and protect teeth. Contact our Miami office for more information.

Request an appointment here: https://www.southfloridadentalarts.com or call South Florida Dental Arts at (305) 230-4041 for an appointment in our Miami office.

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