The introduction of CEREC machines ushered in a revolution in dental technology. While the placement of dental crowns has traditionally required at least two appointments, these devices allow these appliances to be prepared for, produced, and placed in a single visit. This made getting a dental crown much easier for people with busy schedules or an important appearance coming up. Here are a few common questions about CEREC dental crowns along with their answers.
What Are CEREC Crowns?
Dental crowns are caps designed to be cemented to teeth damaged by infection or injury to restore their strength, function, and appearance. CEREC is an acronym standing for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics, and CEREC machines make it possible for customized dental crowns to be designed and built in a dental office. This allows a dentist to prepare a tooth for treatment, manufacture a crown, and cement the two together in a single appointment.
How Long Do CEREC Treatments Take?
While traditional dental crowns usually require two appointments over several weeks to be placed, CEREC crowns can be placed in an hour or two for most patients. The process begins with the dentist treating the patient with a local anesthetic to render the procedure completely painless. They will then remove any decayed material from the tooth and reshape it so the dental crown can fit properly. The tooth will then be measured so the CEREC machine can produce a customized crown, which will then be cemented in place.
How Durable Are CEREC Crowns?
CEREC crowns can last a lifetime with excellent care in some cases, but they will usually require eventual replacement. If a patient develops new tooth decay under the crown, it will have to be removed so the infection can be treated, and the dentist will decide whether the appliance can be cemented back onto the tooth or if it should be replaced entirely. In other cases, the crown will require replacement because it is damaged beyond repair. The average CEREC crown lasts for about ten to fifteen years.
Only a qualified dentist can determine if CEREC dental crowns are right for you. Scheduling a dental consultation can set you on the path to restoring your tooth the fast and easy way.
About the Author
Dr. Nancy Cabansag earned her dental degree from the Loma Linda University School of Dentistry in California and has continued to refine her skills through continuing education courses. She is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association and the Texas Dental Association. Her office in Arlington, TX offers general, cosmetic, emergency, and restorative dentistry such as CEREC same-day dental crowns. If you think you need dental crown treatment, contact her office online or dial (817) 508-9881.