Cerec

The CEREC Procedure

Let’s face it, very few of us have perfect teeth, free of decay and fillings. You can probably see a filling or two in your own mouth, which do just that — “fill” a cavity, or hole, in your tooth left from the excavation of decayed tooth structure. In many cases, those fillings are made of metal material and can go bad, weaken the tooth, or get additional decay under or around it. In fact, 1.2 billion of these metal fillings will need to be replaced in the next 10 years. CEREC is a method used by thousands of dentists worldwide since 1987 not only to replace these fillings, but also to restore any tooth that is decayed, weakened, broken, etc. to its natural strength and beauty. Better yet, it’s done with all-ceramic materials that are tooth-colored in a single appointment!

Exam and Preparation

First, your Dentist examines the tooth and determines the appropriate treatment. It could be a simple filling, or a full crown, depending on how much healthy tooth structure is remaining and the clinical judgment of your Dentist. Next, he or she administers an anesthetic and prepares your tooth for the restoration, removing decayed and weakened tooth tissue. This preparation is just like he or she would do for many other restorative techniques.

Optical Impression

Then, your Dentist takes an Optical Impression of the prepared tooth. Instead of filling a tray with impression “goop” that you must bite into and hold in your mouth until it hardens, your Dentist coats the tooth with a non-toxic, tasteless powder. A camera is then used to take a digital picture of your tooth. This whole Optical Impression process takes only a minute or two.

No Temporaries

Next, the CEREC machine helps the Dentist create the restoration for your tooth. The CEREC 3D software takes the digital picture and converts it into a 3-dimensional virtual model on the computer screen. Your Dentist then uses his or her dental expertise to design the restoration using the CEREC 3D computer program. Within a few minutes, your Dentist clicks a button, and the restoration design data is sent to a separate milling machine in the office. A ceramic block that matches your tooth shade is placed in the milling machine. About 10 – 20 minutes later, your all-ceramic, tooth-colored restoration is finished and ready to bond in place. Finally, your Dentist tries the restoration in your mouth to ensure proper fit and bite. The restoration is then polished and bonded to the prepared tooth. Your tooth is restored with no “temporary” or return trip necessary. All of this is done in a single appointment! Ask us about CEREC today.

What is CEREC? CEREC is an acronym…

  • Chairside: The technology is in the dental operatory and used while you are in the chair
  • Economical: The procedure is economical for both dentist and patient
  • Restorations: The procedure restores your tooth to its natural beauty, function, and strength
  • Esthetic: The restorations are metal-free and tooth-colored
  • Ceramic: High-strength ceramics are used that are close in composition to your natural tooth structure.

CEREC is an advanced dental restorative system that allows your dentist to restore decayed teeth, place crowns, remove defective amalgam fillings, or place cosmetic veneers in just one appointment. This allows you to have the highest quality, most lifelike dental restorations in just one visit to the dentist…in, out, and on with your busy life.

CEREC Acquisition Unit

The CEREC Acquisition Unit is mobile and houses a medical grade computer and the CEREC camera. Your dentist uses the camera to take a digital picture of your prepared tooth. This picture is used instead of a traditional impression. This means no impression tray and material for you to gag on. The computer and CEREC 3D software converts the digital picture to a three-dimensional virtual model of your prepped tooth. Your dentist then designs your restoration right on screen using the software while you wait (and watch!). This software can assist your dentist with designing any single tooth restoration: crowns, inlays (fillings), onlays (partial crowns), and veneers. Once your dentist has designed your restoration (usually about 5 minutes), he or she clicks a button, and the design data is communicated via a wireless radio signal to the CEREC Milling Unit.

CEREC Milling Unit

Your dentist or dental assistant selects a ceramic block that matches the shade of the tooth being repaired. He or she then inserts the block into the Milling Unit. The data from the Acquisition Unit is used to direct two diamond-coated burs to carve the block into the indicated shape of the restoration. This process usually takes 8 to 18 minutes depending on the size and type of restoration. After the milling is finished, your dentist polishes the finished filling or crown and bonds it into place.

CEREC® is a registered trademark of Sirona Dental Systems

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What CEREC and how does it work?
CEREC, which stands for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics, is a cutting-edge dental technology that allows for the creation of same-day crowns. This revolutionary process eliminates the need for multiple visits to the dentist, offering a convenient and efficient solution for patients needing crowns. The process begins with your dentist taking a digital impression of the affected tooth using a special camera. This digital model is then used to design your crown on a computer, ensuring a precise fit and natural appearance. Once the design is complete, the information is sent to a milling machine located right in the dental office. Here, your crown is crafted from a block of high-quality ceramic material. The entire process can typically be completed in just a few hours, allowing you to leave Timberlake Dental with a beautiful, fully restored smile in just one visit.

What are the benefits of choosing CEREC same-day crowns over traditional crowns?
Choosing CEREC same-day crowns offers numerous advantages over traditional crowns. One of the most significant benefits is the time saved. Traditional crowns often require at least two appointments spaced weeks apart, as the crown is crafted in an off-site lab. With CEREC, you can have your crown designed, milled, and fitted in a single visit, making it an ideal option for those with busy schedules. Additionally, CEREC crowns are crafted from high-quality ceramic materials that closely mimic the natural appearance of your teeth, ensuring a seamless blend with your existing smile. This technology also eliminates the need for temporary crowns, which can be uncomfortable and prone to falling off. Furthermore, the digital impressions used in the CEREC process are more comfortable than traditional molds, which often involve messy and uncomfortable putty. Overall, CEREC crowns provide a faster, more comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing solution for dental restorations.

Are CEREC crowns as durable as traditional crowns?
Yes, CEREC crowns are as durable as traditional crowns. They are made from high-quality ceramic materials that are designed to withstand the daily wear and tear that teeth endure. The precise digital design and milling process ensure a perfect fit, which contributes to the crown’s durability and longevity. While traditional crowns are often made from a combination of metal and porcelain, CEREC crowns are crafted entirely from ceramic, which not only offers a natural look but also a strong and resilient structure. With proper care, including regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices, CEREC crowns can last for many years, providing you with a long-lasting solution for your dental restoration needs.

Is the CEREC procedure suitable for everyone?
The CEREC procedure is suitable for a wide range of patients, but it may not be the best option for everyone. It is most commonly used for patients needing crowns, inlays, onlays, or veneers. However, certain situations may require traditional crowns, such as when a tooth is severely damaged or decayed, or when there is not enough natural tooth structure remaining to support a ceramic crown. Additionally, patients with specific bite issues or those requiring extensive dental work may be better suited for alternative treatments. Dr. Rodney Chowning at Timberlake Dental in Denton, TX, will conduct a thorough examination to determine if CEREC is the right choice for your dental needs. If you’re considering CEREC crowns, it’s important to discuss your specific situation with your dentist to ensure that this technology aligns with your treatment goals and expectations.