When CEREC Crowns May Be Recommended

You may have heard a lot about CEREC®, which is becoming a popular method for restoring smiles and improving oral health. Various issues can affect your smile. It can be embarrassing to have cosmetic damage, but there are also health implications. To repair damaged or weak teeth, crowns make a lot of sense. Now, you do not have to wait for weeks or make multiple trips to the dentist’s office. A same-day option is available.

The differences between CEREC and traditional crowns

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped device that fits entirely over a tooth. This cap can be tooth-colored to blend in well with natural teeth. It is usually made of ceramic, porcelain, or a composite resin material. The dentist will secure the crown over the tooth with dental cement, using light to quickly harden the bonding material. A crown can last for up to 10 years or more.

Traditional crowns require a few visits to the dentist’s office. The dentist will make impressions of the mouth and send the model to a lab for a technician to make the crown. This can take two or three weeks. CEREC crowns are made in the office during the same appointment as the preparatory work. The dentist makes a 3D model, which goes to a computer program. The program renders the model, and a milling unit makes the crown out of a ceramic block.

For a faster process

There are advantages to getting CEREC crowns over traditional ones. A dentist may recommend same-day crowns when the patient does not want to wear a temporary crown. After a consultation, the patient can come back for another visit and have the permanent crown in place in two hours or less. This fast process eliminates extra visits to the dentist’s office.

For teeth whitening

A patient may not always want a crown to repair a damaged tooth. Dental crowns can also be an alternative to having a teeth-whitening treatment. Because the dentist can make the crown any desired color shade, it can cover a stained or discolored tooth. Instead of wearing whitening trays for several weeks or months, a CEREC treatment can have immediate and long-lasting results.

For a durable solution

With good care and attention, crowns can withstand years of wear and tear. Crowns allow the person to eat most foods and have a full, attractive smile. In many cases, CEREC lasts longer than traditional crowns. They withstand abrasion and are sturdy. The dentist will follow up regularly with the patient to check on the quality of the crown and make sure it fits comfortably and properly. The patient should continue to brush the crown and floss the gums around it.

Why caring for the CEREC crown is important

Many patients choose a CEREC crown because it feels and looks like a real tooth. Its ceramic materials match the color of the patient’s tooth. This leads to a more natural look. This material needs proper care so that the crown can last. Here are the basic care techniques for CEREC crowns:

• After the procedure, there will still be numbing in the treated area. Its numbness may take hours to fade. The tongue and lips may feel strange. Avoiding hot foods and chewing is ideal until the numbness disappears. Doing so will prevent harming oneself. Avoiding hard, sticky, or chewy foods for one to two days after the treatment can prevent pulling out or damaging the crown.
• During the days or weeks after the procedure, the tooth will be sensitive. There could be pain when consuming sweet, cold, or hot food and drinks. Pain relievers can help the patient manage the discomfort. Tell the dentist if there are sharp cement edges around the crown. The dentist will file them down.
• Long-term care involves maintaining a strict oral care routine. Brushing at least two times a day and flossing before bed must be consistent. The patient must also have regular dental checks. This will allow the dentist to check the tooth’s condition.

Have a crown after one visit and enjoy a new smile

If you have a damaged or discolored tooth, a crown could be the right solution. Traditionally, it took two or three visits and several weeks for the dentist to place a crown. Now, thanks to CEREC treatment, your new crown could be over the affected tooth after one appointment. Talk to your dentist to see if you are a good candidate for this solution.

Request an appointment here: https://www.feelgooddentistry.com or call Feel Good Dentistry at (305) 230-4484 for an appointment in our Miami office.

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