When you crack or chip a tooth, you have two main options: traditional crowns and CEREC same-day crowns. While both can restore the function and appearance of a damaged tooth, the advantage of CEREC is in the name: same-day. You can get a permanent crown in one visit. But is that the only advantage? Our upper Manhattan dentist delves into the many benefits of same-day crowns.
CEREC Same-Day Crowns and Traditional Dental Crowns
The traditional dental crown process involves taking physical impressions of the tooth that are then sent to a lab where the crown is custom-made. You may wait several weeks, during which time you wear a temporary crown. Once the permanent crown is ready, you return to the office for placement.
CEREC stands for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics. The word “chairside” highlights the difference from traditional crowns. This technology allows our dentist, Dr. Donna R. Williams, to create and place a custom-made ceramic crown in just one visit. Morningside Dental Care takes a digital impression of your tooth, creates the crown using computer-aided design (CAD) software, and then mills it from a single block of ceramic material. The crown is then bonded to your tooth, completing the process in a few hours.
CEREC Advantage #1: Convenience
With traditional crowns, you have to make multiple appointments, requiring more time away from what matters. You also have to wear a temporary crown while waiting for the permanent one, and temporary crowns are less sturdy and durable. CEREC crowns eliminate the need for multiple visits and temporary crowns, making the process much more convenient.
CEREC Advantage #2: Aesthetics
CEREC ceramic closely mimics the natural color and translucency of teeth, making it a more aesthetically pleasing option. Traditional crowns are often made from metal or porcelain fused to metal. While porcelain is similar in color to natural teeth, the metal core can affect its look. Solid ceramic doesn’t have this issue. Additionally, CEREC crowns are stained to match the appearance of your other teeth.
CEREC Advantage #3: Strength
Both CEREC same-day crowns and traditional crowns are made from durable materials that withstand the forces of chewing and biting. However, CEREC crowns are milled from a single block of ceramic, making them stronger and less prone to chipping or cracking. This means that CEREC crowns may require fewer repairs or replacements over time, especially with proper preventative care.
CEREC Advantage #4: Cost
While traditional crowns may be a more affordable option, it’s important to consider the long-term benefits and potential cost savings of CEREC crowns. You also pay a little more for fewer trips to our office and a more customized crown.
CEREC Advantage #5: Bite
Speaking of customization, same-day crowns can offer a better match to your old tooth thanks to the digital scan. We can make sure your bite aligns better than it would with a regular dental crown, again saving you the time and effort to come see us for adjustments.
This Is the Future of Dental Crowns
With the advancements in same-day dentistry, you can now achieve a beautiful and healthy smile in just one visit to Morningside Dental Care. Consult our New York City dentist to learn if CEREC dental crowns are right for you.
