What is a CEREC Crown?
A CEREC crown, also known as a ceramic restoration crown, is a revolutionary dental restoration that combines the latest advancements in dental technology with the traditional art of dental crown placement. This innovative treatment has become increasingly popular among patients and dental professionals alike due to its efficiency, precision, and aesthetic appeal. In this article, we will explore what a CEREC crown is, how it works, and the benefits it offers to patients seeking dental restoration.
Understanding the CEREC Crown Process
The CEREC crown process begins with a thorough dental examination by a qualified dentist. During this examination, the dentist will assess the patient’s oral health and determine if a CEREC crown is the right treatment option. If the patient is a suitable candidate, the dentist will proceed with the following steps:
1. Digital impression: Unlike traditional crown placement, which requires an impression taken with a putty-like material, CEREC crowns use a digital scanner to capture the precise dimensions of the tooth. This process is faster, more comfortable, and eliminates the need for a temporary crown.
2. Designing the crown: Once the digital impression is complete, the dentist uses specialized software to design the crown. This software allows for precise customization of the crown’s shape, size, and color to match the patient’s natural teeth.
3. Milling the crown: The designed crown is then sent to a computer-aided design (CAD) machine, which milled the crown from a single block of ceramic material. This process is quick and ensures the highest level of precision and quality.
4. Placement and bonding: The final step is the placement and bonding of the crown. The dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decayed or damaged material, then clean and shape the tooth to accommodate the new crown. The crown is then bonded to the tooth using a special adhesive, completing the restoration process.
Benefits of CEREC Crowns
CEREC crowns offer several benefits over traditional crown placement, including:
1. Same-day treatment: With CEREC crowns, patients can receive their permanent crown in just one visit, eliminating the need for multiple appointments and temporary crowns.
2. Precision and accuracy: The digital scanning and CAD/CAM technology used in CEREC crowns ensures a precise fit and natural appearance, resulting in a restoration that feels and looks like a natural tooth.
3. Enhanced aesthetics: CEREC crowns are made from high-quality ceramic materials, which offer a natural appearance and are resistant to staining and discoloration.
4. Comfort and convenience: The elimination of the need for a temporary crown and multiple appointments makes the CEREC crown process more comfortable and convenient for patients.
5. Longevity: With proper care and maintenance, CEREC crowns can last for many years, providing a durable and long-lasting dental restoration.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a CEREC crown is a cutting-edge dental restoration that combines advanced technology with the art of dental care. This innovative treatment offers numerous benefits, including precision, aesthetics, and convenience. As dental technology continues to evolve, CEREC crowns are becoming an increasingly popular choice for patients seeking high-quality, natural-looking dental restorations. If you are considering a dental crown, talk to your dentist about whether a CEREC crown is the right option for you.