If you have ever gotten a traditional crown or bridge, you know that the process typically involves multiple visits to the dentist, dental impressions that are messy and uncomfortable, and needing to worry about losing a temporary crown while you wait for your final restoration to be made. With CEREC technology at Gentle Dental Care in Menomonie and Durand, WI, we take the hassle out of dental restorations, providing same-day dental crowns and bridges that have a precise fit, natural-looking appearance, and durable, long-lasting results.
How one-day CEREC crowns work
Unlike traditional dental crowns, which use physical impressions of your teeth that are then shipped to an outside laboratory where your restoration is made, CEREC technology enables Drs. Emily Andre and Frankie Thatcher to perform these steps digitally using the latest computer-aided drafting (CAD) software. After taking comfortable and mess-free 3D digital impressions, Dr. Andre or Dr. Thatcher will design your crown or bridge and then transmit the information to our CEREC milling machine, which creates your restoration right in the office. Rather than a process that has historically taken weeks to complete, CEREC technology allows you to come in to the office and leave with your brand new restoration just a couple of hours later.
Benefits of CEREC restorations
CEREC stands for “Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics” – a complicated acronym, but when broken down, helps reveal the many benefits of CEREC technology!
- Chairside: rather than utilizing outside laboratories, which add weeks to the process, CEREC technology is used right next to your dental chair while you catch up on emails or enjoy a good book
- Economical: with work and family schedules being busier than ever before, getting everything done in one visit can provide immense value, saving you time, money, and stress
- Restorations: many types of dental restorations can be made with CEREC technology, such as dental crowns, bridges, inlays, and onlays
- Esthetic: using modern ceramics and advanced dental planning software, CEREC helps us craft natural-looking restorations that are shaded to match your teeth and blend in seamlessly with your smile
- Ceramic: your restoration is milled out of a high-quality, durable dental ceramic that can last for many years when you take good care of your teeth and gums
We value your time at Gentle Dental Care, and CEREC is just one of the many dental technologies that we use in our office to provide you with a better, safer dental experience. We proudly serve patients in the Menomonie, Durand, Eau Claire, Baldwin, Colfax, Pepin, and neighboring areas and can be reached at (715) 600-9004. Call us today to schedule your appointment!
Frequently Asked Questions about Same-Day Crowns Services
How does a CEREC crown compare to a traditional crown in terms of strength and durability?
CEREC crowns are made from premium ceramic, providing strength and durability that is on par with traditional crowns made from porcelain-fused-to-metal or full-metal materials. The advanced milling process ensures a dense and structurally sound crown designed to withstand daily biting and chewing forces. Like traditional crowns, a CEREC crown can last 10 to 15 years or more with proper care. Their precision fit and strong ceramic composition make them an excellent long-term solution for dental restoration.
Can a CEREC crown be customized to match the color of my natural teeth?
Yes, one of the standout advantages of CEREC technology is its ability to customize the shade of your crown to match your surrounding teeth perfectly. The ceramic material mimics natural enamel’s translucency and reflective properties, resulting in a highly aesthetic restoration. Advanced color-matching techniques ensure the crown seamlessly blends with your smile, enhancing its natural appearance.
Is a temporary crown ever needed with a CEREC same-day crown?
A temporary crown is not needed when you choose a CEREC same-day crown. Traditional crown procedures usually require two visits: the first involves preparing the tooth and placing a temporary crown while you wait for the permanent crown to be made in a dental lab. In contrast, CEREC technology allows the entire process to be completed in a single appointment. You will leave the office with your permanent crown securely bonded to your tooth, so there is no need for a temporary crown.
How does the CEREC scanning process compare to traditional dental impressions?
The CEREC scanning process uses a small, handheld digital camera to capture detailed 3D images of your teeth. This method is more comfortable and accurate than traditional impressions, which involve biting into a tray filled with sticky, putty-like material. Digital scans provide a faster, cleaner, and more precise model for designing your crown, reducing the chance of errors and ensuring a better fit.
Are CEREC crowns only suitable for certain types of teeth?
CEREC crowns can be used for both front and back teeth. The ceramic material is strong enough to withstand chewing forces on molars while maintaining a natural appearance for visible teeth in your smile. CEREC crowns can be an effective solution for restoring a damaged front tooth or protecting a weakened molar.
What happens if my CEREC crown needs an adjustment after placement?
While CEREC crowns are designed with precision, minor adjustments may occasionally be necessary to ensure a perfect bite and optimal comfort. If you experience discomfort or an uneven bite, adjustments to the crown can be made quickly and precisely in the office. This helps maintain the crown’s durability and function for long-term success.
How long does the entire CEREC same-day crown appointment take?
The entire process typically takes about two to three hours, depending on the complexity of your case. This includes tooth preparation, digital scanning, crown design, milling, and final placement. Compared to the traditional two-visit process, CEREC same-day crowns are a significant time-saver, making them an ideal choice for busy patients.
