Discover How to Get Dental Crowns in Just One Visit
Dental crowns play a vital role in restoring the function and appearance of damaged or weakened teeth. Thanks to advancements in digital technology, it’s now possible to receive permanent crowns in just one visit instead of a two-week ordeal. Continue reading to find out if same-day crowns are the right choice for you.
Our dentist in Hilliard, OH, will provide you with the knowledge needed to determine the best treatment for your dental needs. For more information, contact our Hilliard dental office at (614) 771-6060.
What Are Same-Day Crowns?
Same-day crowns, also known as CEREC crowns (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics), are tailor-made dental crowns designed, produced, and placed in a single visit at select dental offices. These crowns restore both the function and appearance of teeth that are damaged, decayed, or weakened.
What Is CEREC?
CEREC technology is a revolutionary dental innovation that integrates computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) to create personalized dental crowns. This technology transforms the traditional crown-making process, enhancing efficiency and precision in crafting dental crowns.
Benefits of Same-Day Crowns
Same-day dental crowns offer numerous advantages over traditional dental crown restorations. Here are some key benefits that make CEREC crowns an outstanding choice for patients:
- Time Efficiency: CEREC technology allows the entire crown restoration process to be completed in just one dental visit, eliminating the need for multiple visits and temporary crowns.
- Precision and Accuracy: The use of CAD/CAM technology ensures precise measurements, resulting in well-fitted crowns that feel comfortable and natural in your mouth.
- Biocompatible Materials: CEREC crowns are crafted from biocompatible ceramic materials, ensuring safety for oral health without causing allergies or sensitivities.
- Aesthetically Pleasing: The ceramic material used in CEREC crowns closely resembles the natural color and translucency of teeth, providing a seamless and esthetically pleasing result.
- Durable and Long-lasting: Known for their durability, CEREC crowns can last for many years when properly cared for, offering reliable and long-lasting tooth restoration.
How Do CEREC Crowns Work?
CEREC crowns use advanced computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) technologies to simplify the entire process of crafting personalized dental restorations. Unlike traditional crowns that require multiple visits, CEREC crowns allow you to restore your smile in just a single appointment.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to the CEREC crown procedure:
- Digital Impression: Your dentist will use a specialized intraoral scanner to capture a detailed 3D image of your teeth and gums, eliminating the need for traditional physical impressions.
- Designing the Crown: The digital impression is uploaded to a computer where your dentist utilizes CAD software to create a precise virtual model of your dental crown. This model allows for accurate customization and adjustments.
- Milling Process: Once the crown design is finalized, it is sent to a milling machine that carves the crown from a solid block of ceramic material. This efficient process takes only a few minutes.
- Placement and Bonding: After milling, the dentist will ensure the crown fits well and looks natural before securely bonding it to your tooth with dental cement. The crown is then polished to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
Caring for Same-Day Crowns
To ensure that your same-day crown, also known as a CEREC crown, lasts as long as possible, make sure you’re doing the following:
- Maintain Oral Hygiene: Brush twice daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily and use an antibacterial mouthwash to protect both your CEREC dental crown and natural teeth.
- Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: Steer clear of hard or sticky foods like ice, hard candies, or anything that could damage the crown.
- Regular Dental Visits: Attend regular checkups and cleanings to monitor your CEREC crown and address any issues early.
- Use Protective Gear: If you grind your teeth (bruxism), use a night guard to shield your CEREC crown and natural teeth.
- Limit Staining Substances: Avoid tobacco and limit coffee, tea, and red wine to prevent staining.
- Report Issues Promptly: Contact your dentist if you notice discomfort or changes in your crown’s fit or appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the CEREC process safe?
Absolutely, the CEREC process is safe. Using digital impressions eliminates the need for traditional messy impressions, enhancing patient comfort. Additionally, the ceramic materials utilized in CEREC restorations are biocompatible and well-accepted by oral tissues.
How long do CEREC restorations last?
With diligent oral hygiene and routine dental checkups, CEREC restorations can endure for many years, comparable to traditional restorations. However, factors such as oral habits, bite forces, and maintenance routines can influence the longevity of these restorations.
Are same-day dental crowns more expensive than traditional crowns?
The cost for same-day dental crowns can differ based on the dentist and location. Typically, same-day crowns might be slightly more costly than traditional crowns due to the sophisticated technology and materials used. However, same-day crowns can offer savings over time by minimizing the number of dental visits required and the related expenses.
Revitalize Your Smile in Just One Visit
For those needing dental restorations but unable to accommodate multiple dental visits or lengthy waiting times, same-day crowns present an ideal solution. Leveraging digital technology, same-day dental crowns have transformed the process of dental restorations.
To book a consultation with our dentist, call our Hilliard office at (614) 771-6060. We are proud to serve patients from Columbus, Dublin, Upper Arlington, Grove City, Westerville, and nearby areas.