CEREC Crowns: 4 Common Questions, Answered

Dentistry has evolved, transforming several treatments. For instance, CEREC crowns are now an option that some dental practices can offer. A few patients might not have heard of it before, so it’s only natural to have a few questions. To feel confident choosing it for your smile, here are four things patients often ask about this state-of-the-art restoration.

Does “CEREC” Mean Anything?

Starting out with the acronym, you might be curious about what exactly it stands for. It is “Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramic,” and it refers to the in-office machine that makes the same-day crown. You won’t have to wait for a dental lab to make your restoration, as this technology does it in the same practice!

How Long Does It Take to Get a CEREC Crown?

CEREC crowns are known for their convenience, as it only takes a couple of hours for the entire process to be completed. The bulk of this time is preparing your tooth. Enamel will be removed on all sides to ensure your results won’t be bulky and will sit flush.

When this is done, your dentist will take digital impressions to create a 3D model of your smile. Your restoration will be designed and then sent to a milling machine in the office. It will sculpt your dental prosthetic out of a block of ceramic. After about 30 minutes, your final crown will be ready to be bonded on, and you can show off your results right away.

Will CEREC Crowns Last?

Since your restoration is fully finished on the same day, you might wonder if the quality isn’t as good as the traditional route. Thankfully, this isn’t the case. You will be able to enjoy your renewed tooth for up to 15 years or longer with proper care. By simply brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist, you can keep it in great shape.

What Benefits Do CEREC Crowns Offer?

As was mentioned above, a major benefit of CEREC crowns is their convenience. You will skip the need for a temporary prosthetic, which can irritate the gums of many patients. Better yet, you will still get natural-looking results that help you bite and chew more comfortably than before.

In the end, this same-day restoration is a great option to consider. If you still have any questions about it, then bring them up to your dentist. That way, you get the answers you need to feel confident choosing it for your smile.

About the Author

Dr. Bob Koenitzer earned his dental degree from the University of California at San Francisco. He stays on top of state-of-the-art dental technology, allowing him to offer CEREC crowns to the Petaluma community. Dr. Koenitzer can give you convenient results to get you back to your routine faster while also lasting for years to come. If you have any questions, schedule an appointment or call his office at 707-766-6666.