]Time is such a big deal for most of us. From managing the household, to working at the office, there just seems to be an endless list of things that need to be done. This need for extra time was essentially the driving force behind CEREC ®, a revolutionary system that enables patients to get dental restorations within one day. Dental crowns, inlays, onlays and even dental veneers can be performed in a single office visit. This allows both the dentist and patient to save time!
What is CEREC ®?
CEREC® stands for Chair-side Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics. It is a system that enables the dentist to perform diagnostics, get a restoration fabricated and place a dental restoration within one day. CEREC® uses CAD/CAM technology to make all of these steps possible in a short amount of time. With CEREC®, an entire dental restoration doesn’t take long; hence the doctor can accommodate more patients, while patients can resume their regular activities quickly.
What Are the Steps Involved?
1st Step
The doctor meets with the patient to discuss his needs and goals. This first visit is all about consultation and treatment planning. This first step is not part of the CEREC® one-day restoration. A thorough evaluation will be performed plus deep cleaning treatments. If a CEREC® restoration is necessary, you will be scheduled for another office visit for the actual treatment.
2nd Step
Your CEREC® restoration begins with the dentist applying reflective powder on your teeth. A digital impression of your teeth will then be taken with the use of a special camera. This photo of your teeth will be analyzed by the CEREC® computer. The doctor then reviews the design and makes improvements only when necessary. The final design is fed to a milling unit for fabrication of your restoration.
3rd Step
The CEREC milling machine fabricates your dental restoration on the spot. This won’t take long. Within minutes, your restoration is done and ready to be bonded on your tooth.
4th Step
The dentist bonds the restoration on your tooth, marking the end of your treatment. You only need to take a few hours out of your busy schedule to get all these steps done.
What Are the Distinct Advantages of CEREC ®
- Taking your dental impression, the fabrication of the restoration and the bonding procedure itself are all done in a single office visit.
- The entire procedure offers computer-aided precision and accuracy.
- Materials used for your dental restoration are of high grade quality.
- The doctor can attend to more patients.
- Patients can have more time for work and play.
How Can Dr. Greenhalgh Help You Decide if CEREC Is Right for You?
CEREC technology allows eligible patients to receive custom dental restorations, including crowns, in a single appointment. At Pacific Northwest Smiles, Dr. Darren Greenhalgh can examine your teeth, evaluate the extent of any damage, and determine whether a CEREC restoration is appropriate for your dental needs. He can also explain the treatment process, expected appointment time, and available restoration options to help you make an informed decision about your care.
Introducing patients to dental technology like CEREC involves explaining how the treatment works and what they can expect during their appointment. The Dental Marketing Secrets Podcast explores how dental practices communicate the benefits of their services, improve patient education, and build trust through clear, helpful conversations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a CEREC dental crown appointment take?
A CEREC crown can often be designed, fabricated, and placed in a single appointment lasting a few hours. The exact time depends on the tooth’s condition, preparation requirements, and treatment complexity.
Are CEREC crowns as durable as traditional dental crowns?
CEREC crowns are made from durable ceramic materials and can provide long-lasting results comparable to traditional crowns. Their lifespan depends on the material, bite forces, oral hygiene, and regular dental care.
Can every patient get a same-day CEREC crown?
Not every patient is a candidate for a same-day crown. Extensive tooth damage, complex bite problems, or specific restoration needs may require a different approach. A dentist can evaluate whether CEREC is appropriate for your situation.
Visit Pacific Northwest Smiles for CEREC ® Restorations in Mill Creek, WA
CEREC® makes single-visit dentistry possible for all of us. To know more about this procedure, visit our practice at 15130 Main Street, Suite 210, Mill Creek, WA. You may also give us a call at (425) 357-6400, orset your appointment online. Dr. Darren Greenhalgh and our team are experienced, trusted dental professionals who are committed to providing you with top notch, outstanding dental services.
Photo Credit:Pinterest