Has a cracked or damaged tooth left you feeling frustrated or worried?
You’re not alone—many people face the hassle of restoring their teeth after decay or injury.
Traditionally, getting a dental crown meant juggling multiple visits, uncomfortable temporary crowns, and weeks of waiting. But what if you could fix your tooth in just one appointment, with no mess, no stress, and no temporary solutions?
Welcome to the future of dentistry with same-day CEREC technology. This crown system has been around for 35+ years, but it’s still revolutionizing tooth restoration by offering a faster, more convenient solution that doesn’t compromise on quality.
Keep reading to learn how CEREC crowns work, the benefits they offer, and why they could be the perfect option for your smile.
What Are CEREC Dental Crowns?
CEREC stands for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics, and it’s revolutionizing restorative dentistry.
CEREC crowns are designed and placed in a single visit, using computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) technology. This eliminates the need for messy molds, temporary crowns, and multiple visits.
What makes CEREC crowns special is their efficiency and precision. The crowns are custom-designed to fit your tooth perfectly, and they’re milled from high-quality ceramic that mimics the natural appearance of teeth.
Whether you need a single crown or multiple restorations, the CEREC process is fast, reliable, and durable.
How Do CEREC Crowns Work? The Step-by-Step Process
Digital Impressions (No Messy Molds!)
Instead of using traditional putty impressions, a 3D scanner captures precise images of the damaged tooth. This step ensures a more comfortable experience and highly accurate data for the next phase.
3D Design & Customization
The dentist uses specialized CAD software to design a custom crown that fits your tooth perfectly. They can make adjustments digitally to ensure the crown will look natural and function optimally, aligning with your bite.
On-Site Milling of the Crown
Using the CEREC milling machine, the custom crown is carved from a block of durable ceramic. This process typically takes around 15-20 minutes, resulting in a crown that’s strong and looks great.
Immediate Placement & Bonding
Once the crown is created, it’s polished, color-matched to your natural teeth, and immediately bonded to your tooth. No temporary crowns or follow-up appointments are required.
Benefits of CEREC Crowns Over Traditional Crowns
Same-Day Convenience
No need for multiple visits with a CEREC solution. You can receive a custom, permanent crown in just one appointment, saving you time and hassle.
No Temporary Crowns
With traditional crowns, you’re usually left with a temporary crown for quite a while. In fact, The Journal of the American Dental Association states that it may take as long as 2 weeks to make a permanent crown.
CEREC eliminates this step, offering a more comfortable and streamlined experience.
Precision Fit & Natural Look
The digital design provides a perfect fit, while the high-quality ceramic blends flawlessly with your natural teeth, giving you a crown that looks and feels like your own.
Long-Lasting Durability
CEREC crowns are made from strong, metal-free materials that resist wear and tear, often lasting 10-15 years or more with proper care. Conversely, many traditional crowns can last as few as 5 years according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Comfortable & Minimally Invasive
CEREC crowns require less drilling than traditional methods. This can significantly reduce discomfort and post-treatment sensitivity.
Are CEREC Crowns Right for You?
Best Candidates for CEREC Crowns
In most cases, CEREC crowns are ideal for patients with broken, chipped, or weakened teeth. They’re also an ideal choice for anyone looking for a fast, efficient, and natural-looking restoration.
When Traditional Dental Crowns Might Be Better
If your case involves complex bridges, severe bite adjustments, or if you require gold or metal dental crowns for specific reasons, traditional crowns may be the better option. You’ll want to discuss all of your options with your dental care provider.
How to Care for Your CEREC Crown
To extend and protect the longevity of your CEREC crown, follow these simple care tips:
- Brush properly and floss daily to prevent plaque buildup.
- Avoid biting hard objects like ice or pens, which could crack the crown.
- Schedule regular dental checkups for professional cleaning and assessment.
- If you grind your teeth at night, ask about a nightguard to protect your crown.
Why Choose Hickory Dental for CEREC Crowns?
At Hickory Dental, our experienced team is trained in the latest CEREC technology, ensuring that your restoration is as quick and precise as possible. We invest in state-of-the-art CAD/CAM equipment to create crowns that fit perfectly and look natural.
Whether you’re looking for same-day dental solutions or just need a consultation, we’re here to make your visit comfortable and convenient. Plus, we offer financing options to make sure your treatment is affordable.
Learn If You Might Benefit From a CEREC Crown
CEREC crowns are a revolutionary solution for those in need of fast, durable, and aesthetically pleasing dental restorations. With benefits like same-day convenience, precision fit, and natural appearance, they’re an excellent choice for many of our patients.
If you’re ready to experience the future of dental restorations, schedule your consultation at Hickory Dental! Our NC team is here to provide you with the best care and most efficient solutions for your smile.
Book your appointment today and experience the future of dental restorations with CEREC technology. New patients can also call 828-328-6118.