Dental crowns are the standard way to treat cracked, broken, or decayed teeth. These tooth-shaped caps are cemented over your injured enamel to prevent additional harm while allowing you to continue eating, speaking, and smiling normally.
The traditional method of making these prosthetics requires multiple visits over a period of weeks, but thanks to advancements in dental technology, many providers today offer CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) same-day crowns to reduce wait times. You’re not alone if you are unfamiliar with this updated option. Continue reading through the following 3 frequently asked questions and responses to learn more!
Question #1: How are CEREC Same-Day Crowns Made?
The standard method of making dental crowns involves making manual impressions, which can be messy and less accurate, and taking X-rays that are sent to a special dental laboratory to design your restoration. This is eventually returned to your dentist’s office so they can schedule a final fitting with you and cement it in place.
But thanks to advanced CEREC technology, many providers today take more comfortable digital impressions for enhanced accuracy. These are sent to a special onsite milling machine, which is capable of carving your covering the same day as your initial visit.
Question #2: What are CEREC Same-Day Crowns Made From?
Traditional dental crowns can be made from different options, depending on your unique dental condition and needs. For instance, they can be created from resilient amalgam, gold, porcelain, or porcelain-fused-to-metal. Although metallic crowns can be quite strong, they also can leave patients feeling self-conscious about the way their tooth looks.
Meanwhile, CEREC restorations are carved out of a block of durable ceramic, such as Emax or zirconia. These materials reflect light naturally like enamel and are carefully customized to match your teeth seamlessly for gorgeous results that enhance your self-esteem.
Question #3: How Long Do CEREC Same-Day Crowns Last?
If you’re concerned that you’re sacrificing longevity for convenience by opting for a same-day dental crown, you can safely set your fears aside. These restorations often last between 10 and 15 years when cared for correctly, which is often just as long as their more traditional or metallic counterparts.
Not only that, but keeping your new tooth in good shape isn’t usually too difficult. You can help maintain it by brushing and flossing twice daily, avoiding overly hard, sticky, or crunchy foods, and visiting your dentist every 6 months for a routine checkup and cleaning.
If you are considering getting a CEREC same-day dental crown but are unsure if you’re a good candidate, the best way to find out is to schedule a consultation with your provider!
Meet the Dentist
Dr. Wael Kassem has about 15 years of experience helping families enhance their daily lives by improving their dental health. He earned his dental degree from Temple University and completed a General Practice Residency at Kings County Hospital in NYC. Today, he works diligently to offer a complete menu of services, including CEREC restorations, to meet the unique needs of patients of all ages. If you need a dental crown, you can request an appointment on the website or call (856) 818-9998.