CEREC, the Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics, is a significant advancement in dentistry. The digital CAD/CAM system has led to increased reliability, efficiency and accuracy in the fields of restoration, orthodontics and implantology.
CEREC replaces the need for traditional methods of creating impressions, molds, and dental appliances. It is a computerized design unit that also is fitted with state of the art software, and a precise computer-guided milling machine. The system allows dental professionals to create inlays, onlays, crowns and veneers in a single appointment, saving patients time and money.
What Does CEREC Do?
Traditionally, restorations involve two stages of treatment. First, the examination and diagnostics stage, which usually involved goopy impressions. A couple of weeks later, the fitting of the final crown or veneer would take place. By using the CEREC technology system, the dentist is able to take a 3D image of the tooth, which is used to accurately design and mill a new ceramic restoration, and fit it precisely into the exact location, all within a single visit.
What to Expect
The 3D image is taken using a special camera, which then gets uploaded to the design unit to be used to create an accurate and detailed 3D model of the new tooth. This is used as a blueprint by the milling machine, which mills the new tooth from a block of high quality ceramic. The dentist selects from different types of ceramic and custom stains in order to closely match the patients’ remaining teeth.
At the start of treatment, any local anesthetic or sedation is applied to help the patient relax and enjoy a painless and comfortable procedure. Once the impression of the tooth is taken, the tooth is prepped for the restoration – such as reshaping a tooth before a crown is fitted, or removing enamel to place a veneer.
When both the patient and the dentist are happy with the results, the dentist will use a cement bond to firmly secure the restoration. From start to finish, it is possible for a CEREC CAD/CAM based treatment to be completed under two hours.
Benefits of Same Day Crowns
The primary benefit is convenience because the CEREC system removes the need for the two-week wait, the unpredictability of temporaries and the need for a second visit. The dentist is in complete control of the process and can accurately customize the new prosthetic tooth in a way that most benefits the patient.
Contact our Houston dental office to schedule your appointment today. Whether you have decay or it has been over six months since your last professional cleaning. We look forward to helping you attain your best smile!