Patients often wonder about the quality of same-day dental crowns. They appreciate the convenience of a same-day restoration but wonder whether the quality is the same as that of a crown made in a dental lab.
These are valid questions, and today we're going to review the process of same-day crowns, what you can expect, and the quality our patients enjoy with innovative CEREC technology.
What Is CEREC Technology?
CEREC is short for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics. It's a fancy way of saying same-day crowns, bridges, veneers, and other restorations.
CEREC uses 3-D technology to scan an image of your tooth that our dentists use to design your restorations. Then, it uses their exact specifications to mill a high-quality restoration in our Bellevue dental office while the patient waits.
Our dentists have the crown ready in minutes rather than weeks. Then, they can fit the crown, permanently place it for the patient, and make any necessary adjustments to ensure proper bite function before the patient leaves. The CEREC process takes around 60 to 90 minutes.
How Long Do CEREC Crowns Last?
You can expect the same level of quality from a CEREC crown that you would from a crown made in a dental lab. CEREC uses high-quality ceramic porcelain to fabricate crowns, and because the dentist can send their specifications directly to the computer, the crowns tend to fit exceptionally well.
You will care for a CEREC crown the same way you would a lab-made crown, and with proper care, a dental crown can last 10 to 15 years, sometimes longer.
Caring for Your Dental Crown
Here are some tips for caring for your restoration to get the most longevity:
- Brushing twice daily and flossing once
- Avoid biting directly into hard foods, like crusty bread
- Never use your natural teeth or crowns as tools
- Don't chew on ice
- Avoid sticky or chewy foods that could pull the crown off
- Visit your dentist in Bellevue, TN, every six months for preventive exams and teeth cleanings
When you take care of your dental crown, it can serve you well for many years.
The Advantages of CEREC Dental Crowns in Bellevue
Let's outline the primary advantages that CEREC offers over lab-made crowns:
- Efficiency — CEREC crowns are done in one visit, as opposed to the two to three weeks it takes a dental lab to complete a crown.
- Comfort — CEREC uses 3-D imaging to capture an impression of your tooth instead of the uncomfortable alginate molds we used in the past.
- No Temporaries — Because your restoration is done the same day, you don't have to wear an unreliable temporary crown while you wait for the dental lab.
- Emergency Care — CEREC crowns can be ideal for tooth emergencies where the patient requires an efficient repair for their tooth.
Our dentists and patients alike enjoy the benefits of same-day restorations.
State-of-the-Art Dental Care at Poff Dental Associates
Dr. Poff and his team are committed to bringing patients the best dental care. One way we do this is through advanced technology. We know that using the latest technology makes dental procedures more efficient, effective, and comfortable for patients, and that is one of our primary goals. Here is some of the state-of-the-art technology you'll see at our dental office:
- CBCT Cone Beam Technology — 3-D imaging our dentists use for treatment planning. Advanced planning of implant placement and root canal treatment ensures the best outcomes for our patients.
- Rotary Endodontic Tools — Flexible, electric hand tools that make root canal treatment more comfortable and efficient.
- Digital Impressions — 3-D imaging to help make dental restorations without the need for messy and uncomfortable alginate impressions.
We also offer nitrous oxide sedation for patients who feel anxious or fearful about their dental care. Nitrous helps to "take the edge off" for anxious patients without leaving them with lingering side effects. After treatment with nitrous oxide, you're still able to drive yourself home and continue your normal daily activities.
Looking for Same-Day Crowns Near Me?
Look no further than Poff Dental Associates! We offer CEREC same-day crowns, we're accepting new patients, and we would love to have you be part of our dental family.
You can request a visit online or schedule with a team member by calling us at (615) 662-2400. We look forward to serving you!