How long will it take to get a dental crown? With the traditional approach, it would normally be at least a couple of weeks before you could receive your permanent restoration. Nowadays, though, modern dentists have a way to create crowns during a single appointment: the state-of-the-art CEREC system. This technology significantly speeds up the process while still producing durable, long-lasting crowns. Read on to learn more about how CEREC works as well as the numerous benefits that can leave you smiling!
How Does CEREC Work?
First, your dentist will take numerous X-rays and photographs of your teeth. The CEREC machine processes these images and combine them into a full 3D model of your mouth; this way, it will know the exact shape and size the crown needs to be. Next, the machine will create the restoration by milling a CERAMIC block, which typically takes about 10 to 20 minutes. Once it’s complete, it can be immediately cemented onto the tooth. This is all done over the course of a single appointment; at the end, you’ll receive instructions for taking care of your crown in order to extend its lifespan as long as possible.
What are the Benefits of CEREC?
The most apparent benefit of CEREC is all the time you’ll save; there’ll be no need to room in your schedule for multiple dental visits. However, there are other advantages that may be less obvious but are no less beneficial. By using CEREC, you can:
- Avoid the need for a temporary crown that’s more likely to break or be lost than a permanent crown.
- Have a digital impression of your mouth taken without the need for messy, uncomfortable dental putty.
- Enjoy a precisely designed crown that fits perfectly inside your mouth with little to no need for an adjustment.
- Receive a crown that has been shaded and shaped so that it blends in perfectly with the rest of your teeth.
Can CEREC Be Used for Other Restorations?
Even if you don’t need a full crown, you might still be able to enjoy the benefits of the CEREC system. The machine can also be used to create inlays and onlays – special restorations used when a crown would be unnecessary, but a filling would be insufficient. Inlays fit between the cusps of the tooth while an onlay covers them. In either case, they can be made from a block of ceramic material; thus, they can be designed and created by a CEREC machine.
Do you have a large cavity or a severe tooth injury that needs to be repaired? Are you hoping to repair it as soon as possible? Schedule an appointment with your dentist to find out if you can take advantage of the CEREC system.
About the Author
Dr. L. Blaine Kennington is a proud member of the Washington State Dental Association. At his practice in Castle Rock, Cowlitz River Dental, he enjoys working with his talented and professional staff to help his patients smile again. With advanced tools such as CEREC at his disposal, he aims to always provide the highest level of up-to-date dentistry. If you have a damaged tooth that needs to be repaired with a crown, you can schedule an appointment with Dr. Kennington by visiting his website or calling (360) 274-9100.