Dental technology is rapidly advancing, and dentists are beginning to incorporate new equipment and devices into their offices. Most are worth the investment because of their level of precision and the superior comfort they provide to patients. But what about CEREC dental crowns? There is much discussion about their efficiency and durability, but are they any better than traditional restorations? Keep reading to learn the pros and cons of CEREC so that you can better prepare to make the right decision for your smile.
Is CEREC Worth It?
CEREC is an acronym for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics. This revolutionary technology is taking the restorative dental world to a new level by delivering a faster way to place custom restorations, specifically dental crowns.
They can easily repair damaged or decayed teeth using advanced technology (CAD/CAM) and software, as well as an in-house milling unit to eliminate the middleman, otherwise known as a dental lab technician.
But what are the pros and cons of treatment?
Pros
- CEREC can produce a dental crown in a single visit, cutting down on back-and-forth travel time for patients.
- There is no need for a person to wear a temporary crown, so the chances of possible reinfection are reduced.
- The dentist remains in control, overseeing the entire process from creation to completion.
- The crowns are durable and strong, which means they can last up to 10 years or more with regular care.
Cons
- Although not always the case, CEREC dental crowns may cost more than traditional restorations created in a local lab.
- There may be a limited selection of materials that can be used to create a dental crown.
- Not all damage and decay can be treated with CEREC (i.e., crack below the gumline).
- Most CEREC crowns are crafted from tooth-colored material (i.e., ceramic), so they may not be as durable as metal or porcelain fused to metal.
Should You Choose CEREC Crowns?
Ultimately, the decision is between you and your dentist as to whether you can move forward with CEREC. With many professionals moving away from metal restorations and opting for more aesthetically pleasing materials, this innovative technology can make receiving a high-quality, natural-looking crown more enjoyable.
Why bother waiting weeks to have a traditional restoration put in place when you can visit your dentist once and walk away with a better-protected, visually stunning, and longer-lasting smile?
About the Author
Dr. Amiee Vaughn earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Louisville School of Dentistry. She then completed a one-year general practice residency at the University of Kentucky. Dr. Vaughn and the team at Jupiter Implant and Cosmetic Dentistry provide patients with the latest in dental technology, offering CEREC one-visit restorations to generate faster results for those needing to repair damaged or decayed teeth. If you are interested in learning whether you are eligible to receive a CEREC dental crown, visit our website or call (561) 747-7172.