A Step-by-Step Guide to the CEREC Procedure

When a person has a chipped tooth, gaps between the teeth, discoloration, or cavities, prompt restoration is essential. CEREC® crowns allow for same-day placement. With same-day crowns, patients receive an improved smile within a few hours. In addition to creating a more aesthetically pleasing smile, crowns make it easier for a patient to chew, drink hot or cold drinks, and even speak in some instances. They also protect natural teeth that have structural damage from further decay, can work in conjunction with implants to support existing teeth, and help people to gain more confidence in their smiles and overall appearance.

The steps to a same-day crown procedure

The CEREC® procedure was created to be completed in a single dental appointment, which benefits not only the patient but the dentist's schedule as well.

1. Performing the exam and diagnosis

A patient who walks into a dentist's office with a toothache first receives an exam. The dentist determines what is causing the toothache and how serious it is. Usually, this is a simple visual exam, but some situations may require an X-ray to see the problem. After diagnosing the cause of the toothache, the dentist can determine if a same-day crown is a viable treatment and if so, move to the next step.

2. Preparing the tooth for treatment

If the decayed tooth has an infection, that bacteria is removed along with any dead or dying tissue. Next, the dentist prepares the tooth for the same-day crowns. The process includes removing a layer of enamel to create a smoother surface for the crown, which helps it to stay firmly in place. 

3. Creating the crown

The third step is for the dentist to perform an intraoral scan, which is a digital image of the tooth's new shape. The camera connects to software that designs the same-day implant. The software uses the images to create a 3D model, which the dentist then uses to design the custom-fitting dental crown. Before fabricating it, the dentist shows the new images to the patient to ensure happiness with the expected results of the same-day restoration. If necessary, the dentist can make adjustments to the design to ensure the patient is satisfied.

4. Fabricating and fitting the crown

The final step of the same-day crown process is to fabricate and fit the tooth. The final draft of the  crown's design model is sent to the milling unit, which functions as a 3D printer to carve the crown out of a block of ceramic material. Finally, the dentist uses cement or another type of dental adhesive to attach the crown to the patient's tooth. The patient can go home and typically only experiences minor soreness for a few days following the procedure.

Conclusion

Same-day CEREC® dental crowns are optimal because they take only a few hours to create. If you suspect you need a crown on one or more of your teeth, talk to your dentist to learn more about this procedure.

Request an appointment here: https://modernsmilesaz.com or call Modern Smiles Family Dentistry at (602) 362-7065 for an appointment in our Phoenix office.

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