Dental crowns are designed to restore teeth to their original size, function, and appearance after they are compromised by injury, extensive decay, or intensive dental treatments such as root canals. While traditional dental crowns are manufactured at a lab and placed over the course of two appointments, CEREC same-day crowns only require one visit. Here’s a brief overview of the differences between these two options to help you make an informed decision.
They Take Different Amounts of Time
Placing a traditional crown takes at least two appointments. The dentist starts the first by using a local anesthetic to numb the tooth being treated before reshaping the tooth to remove any decayed structure and make room for the crown. The dentist then takes bite impressions to create a precise mold of the treated tooth before adhering a temporary crown in place. The permanent crown is then manufactured at a lab and sent back to the dentist about two weeks later. During the second appointment, the dentist removes the temporary crown and cements the final one in place.
CEREC crowns, on the other hand, can be placed in a single appointment. After the dentist numbs and reshapes the tooth, they use a special device to create precise 3D measurements of the tooth. The data is then fed to a CEREC machine that mills the crown down from a ceramic block in about two hours. Once the machine is finished, the crown is cemented in place and the patient is ready to go.
They Can Fit Differently
The materials used to create bite impressions for traditional dental crowns do not take measurements as accurate as the digital measurements taken for CEREC crowns. This sometimes leads to traditional crowns requiring more adjustments to fit correctly. The digital scans taken for CEREC crowns ensure an accurate and comfortable fit.
CEREC Crowns May Be More Affordable
While you may think that the old-fashioned way of making crowns would be the cheaper option, CEREC technology can save you money by eliminating the need for a second appointment. This spares the patient the time, gas, and wear and tear on their car that it takes to make it to the dentist’s office for the second visit and also prevents them from needing to take the time off of work.
CEREC crowns offer many benefits that traditional crowns cannot match. Consulting with your dentist can determine if same-day crowns are the right course of treatment for you.
About the Practice
Seahurst Smiles of Burien provides the finest family dental care available in Burien, WA. Led by Dr. Vincent Lam, the staff delivers compassionate service that addresses patients’ needs. Areas of expertise include general, cosmetic, emergency, and restorative dentistry such as CEREC same-day dental crowns. To learn more about the advantages of CEREC technology, contact the office online or dial (206) 589-8556.