CEREC Crowns

If you’re considering getting a dental crown or simply curious about this modern dental restoration option, count on our team at The Downtown Dentist in downtown Colorado Springs to help you understand your oral health options.

Understanding CEREC Crowns: A Brief Overview

CEREC stands for “Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics”, and it refers to a type of dental crown that is made using ceramic material. Unlike traditional dental crowns, which require multiple visits to The Downtown Dentist, CEREC crowns can be fabricated and placed in just one appointment, saving you time and providing a convenient solution for damaged teeth. These ceramic crowns offer a durable, natural-looking restoration option.

The Technology behind CEREC Crowns

CEREC crowns utilize cutting-edge technology to create precise and durable dental restorations. The process starts with the use of CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) technology. A small camera captures images of your teeth, which are then used by CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software to create a virtual model of your crown. 

This digital model guides the milling unit, a state-of-the-art machine that fabricates your ceramic crown with precision. The incorporation of art technology ensures that your CEREC crown is meticulously crafted to fit your damaged tooth seamlessly. 

CEREC Crowns vs Traditional Dental Crowns

Here are some key differences between CEREC crowns and traditional dental crowns.:

• CEREC crowns eliminate the need for temporary crowns, as they can be fabricated and placed in a single visit, whereas traditional crowns often require at least two visits.
• Traditional dental crowns involve messy impressions, which can be uncomfortable for some patients, whereas CEREC crowns rely on digital imaging technology.
• The turnaround time for traditional crowns can be longer, as they often need to be sent to a dental laboratory for fabrication, while CEREC crowns can be created chairside, reducing the waiting period.
• CEREC crowns provide a more convenient and efficient solution, as they eliminate the need for multiple dental office visits and temporary restorations.
• Traditional dental crowns come in various types, including metal crowns, porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns, and all-porcelain crowns, whereas CEREC crowns are primarily made of ceramic material, offering esthetic appeal and a durable restoration option.

The Convenience of Same-Day Procedure

One of the primary reasons to choose CEREC crowns is the convenience they offer. Unlike traditional crowns that require multiple dental office visits, CEREC crowns can be completed in a single visit, saving you time and reducing the hassle of scheduling multiple appointments. 

With CEREC crowns, the entire process, from digital imaging to crown fabrication, can be completed chairside in a matter of minutes. This means that you can walk out of The Downtown Dentist with a permanent crown, eliminating the need for temporary restorations that may cause discomfort.

Aesthetic Appeal and Durability

In addition to their convenience, CEREC crowns offer aesthetic appeal and durability. These crowns are made of high-quality ceramic material, which mimics the natural translucency of your teeth, providing a seamless and natural-looking restoration. Moreover, the ceramic material used in CEREC crowns is durable, ensuring that your crown will withstand normal wear and tear for years to come. The precision of the milling process also ensures a good fit, promoting optimal function and enhancing your overall dental health. 

With CEREC crowns, you can enjoy both esthetic appeal and long-lasting restoration of your tooth.

Delving into the CEREC Crown Procedure

Following is the step-by-step process of obtaining your new crown.

Initial Consultation and Decision Making

The first step of the CEREC crown procedure is an initial consultation with The Downtown Dentist. During this appointment, our team will evaluate your dental health and determine if CEREC crowns are the right choice for your damaged tooth. They will explain the procedure, discuss your options, and guide you in making an informed decision regarding the type of crown and material that will best suit your needs. 

This consultation is crucial in ensuring that you receive the most appropriate dental restoration for your specific situation.

The Process of Creating CEREC Crowns

Here’s a breakdown of the process involved in creating and placing CEREC crowns:

• Using a small camera, the professionals at The Downtown Dentist will capture digital images of your damaged tooth, eliminating the need for messy impressions.
• CAD technology will be used to design your precise crown, taking into account your dental anatomy and specific restoration needs.
• The design specifications are then sent to a milling unit, a sophisticated machine that fabricates your ceramic crown from a block of high-quality ceramic material, chosen to match the natural color of your surrounding teeth.
• Once the milling process is complete, our team will check the fit and color of the crown before permanently bonding it to your damaged tooth, creating a seamless restoration that blends in with your natural teeth.

How to Maintain Your CEREC Crowns

Now that your CEREC crowns are in place, it’s important to know how to properly maintain them for long-term success.

Dental Care Post-CEREC Crown Placement

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential after the placement of your CEREC crowns.

Long-term Maintenance Tips

To ensure your CEREC crowns stay in optimal condition for years to come, here are some long-term maintenance tips:

• Wear a mouthguard during sports to protect your CEREC crowns from any potential trauma.
• Avoid using your teeth as tools for opening packages or breaking objects, as this can put unnecessary stress on your crowns.
• Rinse your mouth with water or brush your teeth after consuming staining food or drinks to prevent discoloration of your natural teeth and the ceramic material of your crowns.
• Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings at The Downtown Dentist will help monitor the condition of your crowns and address any issues promptly.
• Consider teeth whitening treatments, if desired, to maintain a uniform color with your CEREC crowns and natural teeth.

Schedule a consultation, today

In conclusion, CEREC crowns offer a modern, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing solution for dental restoration. With the convenience of same-day procedures and long-lasting durability, they stand out as a preferred choice over traditional crowns. The advanced technology behind CEREC crowns ensures precise customization and a comfortable experience for patients. By choosing The Downtown Dentist in downtown Colorado Springs, you can enjoy the benefits of a streamlined process and excellent results in dental care. Schedule an appointment with one of our dentists by calling (719) 260-0216 for our Tejon Street location or (719) 633-3711 for our Willamette Avenue location.