Is a CEREC Crown Worth It? What You Need to Know

Dental crowns play a crucial role in restoring damaged teeth, offering both functional and aesthetic benefits. Among the advancements in modern dentistry, CEREC crowns stand out as a convenient option, valued for their efficiency and quality. This blog explores what CEREC crowns encompass, their distinct advantages over traditional crowns, the procedure involved, potential drawbacks, patient suitability, and whether they are a worthwhile consideration for dental restoration needs.

What is a CEREC Crown?

A CEREC crown, an abbreviation for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics, represents a type of dental crown crafted using CAD/CAM technology. Unlike traditional crowns, which typically require multiple visits to the dentist, CEREC crowns are designed and placed in a single appointment. This technology enables dentists to create precise, custom-fit crowns directly in their office, eliminating the need for temporary crowns and reducing overall treatment time.

What are the Benefits of Getting a CEREC Crown?

If you are thinking – “Is a CEREC crown worth it?” Then, you first need to have a look at the benefits it offers over traditional crown methods, such as:

• Quality: CEREC crowns are known for their precise fit and natural appearance. Using CAD/CAM technology allows for detailed digital impressions and accurate crown designs, resulting in crowns that blend flawlessly with the patient’s natural teeth.
• Minimized Discomfort: With traditional crowns, patients may experience discomfort from multiple appointments and the placement of temporary crowns. CEREC crowns minimize discomfort by reducing the frequency of visits and eliminating the need for temporary restorations, providing a more streamlined and comfortable experience.
• Preservation of Tooth Structure: CEREC crowns require minimal removal of tooth structure compared to traditional crowns. This conservative approach helps protect more of the natural tooth, promoting long-term dental health.
• Biocompatibility: CEREC crowns are made from high-quality ceramic materials that are biocompatible to the body. They are very less likely to cause allergic reactions or sensitivity issues compared to other crown materials.

The CEREC Crown Procedure

The process of receiving a CEREC crown involves several key steps:

• Digital Impression: The dentist uses a specialized camera to capture a proper digital impression of the tooth that needs restoration. This digital impression replaces the traditional method of using messy dental putty for impressions.
• Designing the Crown: Using CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software, the dentist designs the crown digitally. This allows for precise customization of the crown’s shape and size to ensure an optimal fit.
• Milling the Crown: Once the design is complete, the CAD/CAM system mills the crown from a solid block of ceramic material. This milling process is precise and efficient, creating a durable and aesthetically pleasing crown.
• Placement: After milling, the dentist carefully places the newly fabricated CEREC crown onto the prepared tooth. The crown is bonded using dental cement, ensuring a secure fit that restores both function and appearance.

Are There Any Drawbacks to CEREC Crowns?

While CEREC crowns offer numerous benefits, there are some considerations to keep in mind:

• Material Options: CEREC crowns are primarily made from ceramic materials, which may limit the range of material options available compared to traditional crowns. This could potentially affect factors such as durability or aesthetic customization.
• Cost: Initial costs for CEREC crowns may be higher due to the advanced technology involved. However, many patients find that the long-term benefits of same-day crowns in Victoria outweigh this initial investment.
• Repair Difficulty: While CEREC crowns are durable, repairing them can be more challenging compared to traditional crowns. If a CEREC crown becomes damaged, it may require replacement rather than repair, depending on the extent of the damage and the dentist’s assessment.
• Aesthetic Limitations: While CEREC crowns offer natural-looking results, there may be limitations in achieving certain aesthetic effects or color variations that can be more easily achieved with traditional crown materials. Patients with specific cosmetic preferences may want to discuss their options with their dentist.

How Long Does It Take to Get a CEREC Crown?

The entire process of preparing the tooth, taking digital impressions, designing the crown, milling it, and placing it typically takes about two hours. This streamlined approach allows patients to leave the dental office with a fully preserved tooth in a single appointment, avoiding the need for temporary crowns and multiple visits. In contrast, traditional crown procedures often require at least two appointments spaced over several weeks. During this time, patients may need to wear a temporary crown while waiting for a lasting, permanent one to be fabricated in a dental laboratory.

What Is the Lifespan of a CEREC Crown?

The lifespan of a CEREC crown can vary depending on several factors, but they are designed to be highly durable and long-lasting when properly cared for. Here are key considerations regarding the lifespan of CEREC crowns:

Average Lifespan: On average, CEREC crowns can last between 10 to 15 years or more. This lifespan is comparable to traditional crowns made from similar materials when maintained with good oral hygiene practices and regular dental check-ups.

Factors Affecting Lifespan:

• Oral Hygiene: Keeping good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing twice daily, flossing daily, and using mouthwash, helps preserve the longevity of CEREC crowns.
• Dental Check-ups: Regular visits to the dentist in Victoria for check-ups and cleanings allow for early detection of any issues with the crown and preventive care to extend its lifespan.
• Dietary Habits: Avoiding chewing hard objects or foods that could potentially damage the crown helps prevent premature wear and tear.
• Bruxism: Patients who usually grind or clench their teeth (bruxism) may experience faster wear on their crowns. Using a night guard or other protective measures recommended by the dentist can mitigate this risk.

Are CEREC Crowns Suitable for Everyone?

CEREC crowns are a highly effective dental restoration option for many patients, but their suitability can depend on specific factors and individual circumstances. Here’s a closer look at who might benefit most from CEREC crowns and considerations for suitability:

Dental Restoration Needs

• Single Visit Convenience: Patients who prefer to have their dental crowns completed in a single dental visit without the requirement for multiple appointments or temporary crowns often find CEREC crowns appealing.
• Immediate Restoration: Those needing immediate restoration due to a cracked, broken, or severely decayed tooth can benefit from the quick turnaround time of CEREC crowns.

Health Considerations

• Good Oral Health: Candidates with overall good oral health, including healthy gums and surrounding teeth, are typically suitable for CEREC crowns. It’s important that the tooth receiving the crown has sufficient structure to support it.
• No Severe Bruxism: Patients who do not have severe bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching) may be better candidates, as bruxism can potentially impact the longevity of dental restorations, including CEREC crowns.

Cosmetic Preferences

Natural Appearance: Individuals seeking a crown that closely matches the color, shape, and contour of their natural teeth may prefer CEREC crowns. These crowns are well known for their aesthetic appeal due to precise digital impressions and custom design.

Material Preferences

Ceramic Material: CEREC crowns are primarily made from ceramic materials, which are biocompatible and offer a natural appearance. Patients who prefer ceramic over other crown materials, including metal or porcelain fused metal, may opt for CEREC crowns.

Conclusion

In conclusion, CEREC crowns represent a significant advancement in dental technology, offering patients a convenient and efficient option for restoring damaged teeth. The benefits of same-day crowns, including convenience, quality, and time efficiency, make them a compelling choice for many individuals seeking dental restoration. While there are considerations such as material options and initial costs, the overall advantages of CEREC crowns often outweigh these factors. Consult Victoria Dentistry today to explore if CEREC crowns are the perfect choice for your dental needs and enhance your smile confidently and promptly.