What are CEREC Crowns Made Of?
CEREC crowns, also known as Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics, have revolutionized the dental industry by offering a quick and efficient solution for restoring damaged teeth. One of the most frequently asked questions about CEREC crowns is: what are they made of? In this article, we will explore the materials used in CEREC crowns and their benefits.
CEREC crowns are primarily made of ceramic materials, which have become the preferred choice for dental restorations due to their aesthetic appeal and biocompatibility. The ceramic used in CEREC crowns is typically a type of porcelain, known for its durability, strength, and natural appearance. Porcelain is a versatile material that can be shaped and colored to match the patient’s existing teeth, ensuring a seamless and cosmetically pleasing result.
The ceramic material used in CEREC crowns is also highly resistant to wear and tear, making it an excellent choice for long-lasting restorations. Unlike traditional crowns made of metal or porcelain fused to metal (PFM), ceramic crowns do not contain any metal components, which can lead to discoloration over time. This makes ceramic crowns an ideal option for patients who want a natural-looking restoration that blends in with their smile.
In addition to porcelain, some CEREC crowns may also incorporate a dental bonding agent to enhance their strength and durability. This bonding agent is designed to create a strong bond between the ceramic material and the natural tooth structure, ensuring that the crown remains securely in place. The use of a bonding agent also helps to preserve more of the natural tooth structure, as less tooth material needs to be removed during the preparation process.
One of the key advantages of CEREC crowns is their ability to be created and placed in a single dental visit. This is made possible by the advanced technology used in CEREC systems, which allows for the scanning, design, and fabrication of the crown all in one appointment. The ceramic material used in CEREC crowns is compatible with this technology, as it can be milled and shaped with precision using a computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) process.
In conclusion, CEREC crowns are made of ceramic materials, primarily porcelain, which offer a natural-looking, durable, and biocompatible solution for restoring damaged teeth. The use of advanced technology ensures that these crowns are created and placed in a single visit, providing patients with a convenient and efficient dental restoration option. If you are considering a CEREC crown, it is important to discuss your options with a qualified dental professional to determine if this type of restoration is right for you.
