A CEREC same-day crown lets patients receive restorative treatment more quickly than with traditional methods. Crafted in-house with advanced technology, this ensures an experience that allows them to walk out the same day with a newer, more beautiful smile. But how long does it really take to receive a same-day crown? Keep reading to learn more about the process and what you can expect if you are preparing for this type of treatment.
CEREC Same-Day Crowns: The Basic Overview
When receiving a same-day crown, the process of creating the restoration differs from that of a restoration crafted in an off-site dental laboratory. Although treating the decayed or damaged tooth remains the same, there are unique benefits of choosing a CEREC crown, especially if you prefer quicker results.
Creating these same-day restorations requires CAD/CAM (computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing) and an in-house milling unit to fabricate the final crown.
How Long Does It Take to Make CEREC Crowns?
Compared to the 2-3 weeks it can take to fabricate a traditional crown, CEREC crowns require only a single appointment and a few hours of your time.
The process requires a step-by-step process that looks something like the following:
- Your dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the tooth and the surrounding area before cleaning out the decayed or damaged areas. They will then reshape the tooth in preparation for the new crown.
- A digital impression is then taken of your teeth, which produces a 3D model that your dentist will analyze. This will make it easier for your dentist to make necessary adjustments before the crown is created.
- The image is then sent to an in-house milling unit to create a customized crown from a single block of porcelain. Exact specifications and dimensions are expected, especially given the impressions’ high accuracy.
- Once it is ready, your dentist will review the crown to ensure it matches the desired specifications. It will be color-matched to your natural enamel shade before your dentist bonds it to your vulnerable tooth.
- A quick check of your bite will ensure it is seated properly and not causing additional pressure on particular teeth.
All of this happens while you wait in the treatment chair. Not only does this process reduce the number of times you must visit the dentist’s office, but it also eliminates the need for a temporary crown.
When deciding how to proceed, ask yourself if you would rather wait a few weeks or a few hours for a fully restored smile. The results you will achieve with CEREC make it an easy choice.
About the Author
Dr. Theresa Lassetter is a graduate of the University of Texas Health Science Center School of Dentistry. At Heart of Texas Smiles, she helps patients enjoy fully restored teeth with CEREC same-day crowns. When addressing damage or decay, she and our team want to deliver high-quality results with convenience in mind. If you have a tooth that needs timely repair, visit our website or call (254) 848-0240 to schedule an appointment to discuss a potential CEREC dental crown.