How Dental Same Day Crowns Work with a CEREC Machine: A Comprehensive Guide
Advances in dental technology have significantly improved the efficiency and convenience of treatments, and one of the most impressive innovations is the use of CEREC machines for same day crowns. CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) technology allows dentists to create and place high-quality ceramic crowns in a single visit. In this blog, we’ll take you through the entire workflow, from start to finish, explaining how same day crowns are made and fitted using a CEREC machine.
What is a CEREC Machine?
CEREC is a cutting-edge dental technology that enables the creation of ceramic dental restorations right in the dentist’s office. The system includes CAD/CAM (computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing) technology, which allows for precise design and manufacturing of dental crowns.
Workflow for Same Day Crowns with a CEREC Machine
- Initial Consultation and PreparationThe process begins with an initial consultation where the dentist examines the tooth that needs a crown. X-rays and visual inspections are performed to determine the extent of the damage or decay.If a crown is deemed necessary, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay or fractures and shaping it to fit the crown. This involves reshaping the tooth to ensure it can adequately hold the new crown.
- Digital Impressions
Instead of using traditional impression materials, the CEREC machine uses a small camera to take a digital impression of the prepared tooth. This camera, known as an intraoral scanner, captures detailed 3D images of the tooth and surrounding area. - Designing the Crown
The digital impressions are transferred to the CEREC software, where the dentist designs the crown. The software allows for precise customization, ensuring that the new crown will fit perfectly and match the patient’s natural teeth in shape and color. - Milling the Crown
Once the design is complete, the CEREC machine mills the crown from a solid block of ceramic material. This step is incredibly precise, thanks to the advanced CAD/CAM technology. The milling process typically takes about 5-8 minutes. The crown is then tried in the patient’s mouth to confirm proper adaptation and fit. - Lab Processing of the crown
Once the dental crown is milled using the CEREC machine and verified in the patient’s mouth, it undergoes a crucial lab processing step to achieve its final strength and aesthetics. The crown is then stained and glazed and placed in a dental kiln, which is a high-temperature furnace designed specifically for firing dental ceramics. - Fitting and Bonding
Once the crown has been fired, it is then ready to be seated in the patients mouth. The dentist will bond the crown to the prepared tooth via chemical bonding. This process is done by using an antibacterial disinfectant, and a strong bonding agent to ensure the strongest possible bond of the crown to your natural tooth. - Final Adjustments and Polishing
After the crown is bonded in place, the dentist will make any final adjustments to ensure a comfortable bite. The crown is then polished to a high shine, completing the restoration.
Benefits of Same Day Crowns with CEREC
- Convenience: The entire process is completed in a single visit, eliminating the need for temporary crowns and multiple appointments.
- Precision: Digital impressions and CAD/CAM technology ensure a perfect fit and natural appearance.
- Durability: CEREC crowns are made from high-quality ceramic materials that are both strong and aesthetically pleasing.
- Comfort: Digital impressions are more comfortable for patients compared to traditional putty molds.
Conclusion
CEREC technology has revolutionized the process of getting dental crowns, making it faster, more precise, and more convenient than ever before. With same day crowns, patients can restore their smiles in just one visit, enjoying the benefits of advanced dental technology. If you need a crown, ask your dentist if they offer CEREC same day crowns to experience the future of dental care.
