Dental crowns are used to protect and restore the appearance of teeth that have been compromised by injury, extensive decay, or dental procedures like root canals. While it has traditionally taken at least two appointments spaced about two weeks apart to prepare the teeth and manufacture and place a dental crown, CEREC technology allows dentists to prepare a tooth and place a crown in a single appointment. Here’s how the process works and how long it takes to receive a same-day dental crown.
How Are CEREC Crowns Manufactured?
CEREC crowns are created using a CEREC machine that mills down a porcelain or ceramic block into a beautiful and functional prosthetic appliance. The process begins with your dentist numbing the tooth being treated with a local anesthetic and reshaping it to eliminate decayed structure and make room for the crown. Once the tooth has been prepared, your dentist will use a device to take precise digital measurements of your tooth. These measurements will be uploaded to the CEREC machine, which will use the data to create a customized crown.
How Long Do CEREC Crowns Take?
The process of milling down the block of material into a crown takes about two hours, meaning that it can be completed during one dental visit. You may wish to bring a book to pass the time while you wait. Once the machine has finished the crown, your dentist will cement it in place on your tooth and make any final adjustments. You’ll then be ready to meet the world with a beautifully restored smile.
How Can I Keep My CEREC Crown in Great Shape?
Caring for a CEREC crown is no different from caring for a traditional one. It’s best to wait a day or two after having your crown placed before you begin using it while chewing, eating crunchy or chewy foods, or drinking acidic beverages, as all of these may weaken the cement and cause the crown to come loose. It’s also important to abstain from chewing on non-food items such as paperclips, erasers, or ice as well as using your teeth as tools to open packages or bottles.
CEREC crowns are a convenient way to restore and protect a damaged or misshapen tooth. Having a crown made and placed in one day can save you a lot of time, and taking proper care of it can save even more time by avoiding the need for further adjustments or repairs.
About the Author
Dr. Vincent Lam earned his dental degree from Temple University in Philadelphia and has completed extensive continuing education courses in specialty services such as CEREC same-day restorations. He is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. His office in Burien, WA, offers general, cosmetic, emergency, and restorative dentistry such as CEREC same-day crowns. To schedule a dental crown consultation, contact his office online or dial (206) 589-8556.