If you’ve been told you need a dental crown, you may be wondering about your options. One increasingly popular choice is a CEREC crown, a same-day dental crown made using advanced computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology. CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) crowns are designed, milled, and placed in a single dental visit, making them a convenient option for many patients.
But is a CEREC crown the right choice for you? Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons to help you decide.
Pros of CEREC Dental Crowns
One-Visit Convenience
The biggest advantage of CEREC crowns is speed. Traditional crowns typically require two appointments spaced a couple of weeks apart – one for tooth preparation and impressions, and another for placement. With CEREC, everything is done in a single visit, eliminating the need for temporary crowns and multiple trips to the dentist.
No Temporary Crowns
Temporary crowns used in traditional treatments can be uncomfortable, may fall off, or might not fit properly. Since CEREC crowns are placed the same day, you skip the temporary phase entirely, reducing discomfort and inconvenience.
Digital Impressions
CEREC crowns use digital scanning instead of messy, putty-like impression materials. Many patients find digital impressions to be more comfortable, accurate, and faster.
Natural Appearance
CEREC crowns are made from high-quality ceramic that closely mimics the color and appearance of natural teeth. This makes them especially suitable for crowns on front teeth where aesthetics matter most.
Durable Material
CEREC crowns are known for their durability and strength. With proper care, they can last 10 to 15 years or longer, making them a reliable long-term solution for restoring damaged teeth.
Cons of CEREC Dental Crowns
Not Suitable for All Cases
While CEREC crowns are ideal for many situations, they may not be appropriate for all patients or teeth. For example, teeth with significant decay below the gum line or those requiring a metal crown (such as molars under heavy chewing stress) may not be good candidates for CEREC.
Higher Cost Upfront
CEREC crowns can be slightly more expensive than traditional crowns due to the technology involved. However, the added convenience and saved time may justify the cost for many patients.
Limited Material Options
CEREC crowns are made exclusively from ceramic. Traditional crowns, on the other hand, offer more material choices, such as porcelain-fused-to-metal or full gold, which might be better suited for certain clinical or aesthetic needs.
Learning Curve for Dentists
Because CEREC technology is complex, the dentist’s skill and experience with the system can affect the quality of the final crown. Choosing a provider experienced in CEREC procedures is essential for the best results.
CEREC dental crowns offer an innovative, time-saving alternative to traditional crowns. With same-day convenience, excellent aesthetics, and no need for temporary crowns, they’re a great option for many patients. However, they’re not right for every case, and there may be limitations based on your specific dental needs. Talk to your dentist about whether a CEREC crown is the best fit for your smile.
About the Practice
Are you looking for an instant solution to damaged teeth? Morgan Dental Care can offer you high-quality, customized CEREC crowns in just one appointment! No more shuffling back and forth to the dentist office with this solution, and no “goop” required as our impressions are taken digitally. You’ll also enjoy our modern yet homey office environment and our expert team as well. Ready to fix your problem teeth? Schedule your appointment online or call (207) 839-2655.