Are CEREC Same-Day Crowns as Strong as Traditional Crowns?

When patients learn they can get a crown in a single appointment, they naturally wonder whether same-day crowns are as strong as traditional crowns. In this article, we answer that question and explain the process of getting CEREC same-day crowns.

Are CEREC Same-Day Crowns as Strong as Traditional Crowns?

CEREC same-day crowns are just as strong as traditional crowns, as they are made from solid, high-quality blocks of ceramic or zirconia. Typically, traditional crowns are made from the same materials, meaning that there is no difference in durability between them and CEREC same-day crowns. In addition to being durable, ceramic and zirconia are also stain-resistant. With proper care, these crowns can last up to 15 years.

The Advantages of CEREC Same-Day Crowns

Getting traditional crowns can be lengthy and require multiple visits to a dental office. In comparison, CEREC same-day crowns have several advantages:

• The entire crown process takes just one visit to the dental office.
• You will not need to wear a short-term temporary crown.
• You will undergo a fast and clean process of 3D digital mapping instead of getting impressions with putty impression trays.
• Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software and in-office milling produce exact fits.

What Happens During the Procedure of Getting CEREC Same-Day Crowns

The entire process of getting a CEREC same-day crown typically takes 90 to 120 minutes. At the beginning of the process, your dentist will administer local anesthesia via injection in the gum. Once it takes effect in a couple of minutes, your dentist will file down and prepare your tooth for crown placement. Then, your dentist will use a small digital camera to take a 3D scan of your teeth. This scan will create a 3D digital model of your crown that fits perfectly within your bite.

Next, we send the model to an in-office milling machine. The machine will mill your custom crown from a solid ceramic block in about 15 to 20 minutes. Then, your dentist will ensure that the crown fits comfortably and correctly and make small adjustments if necessary. The last step is to bond the crown to your tooth using dental cement.

Do CEREC Same-Day Crowns Look Natural?

CEREC same-day crowns look very natural in the mouth and are indistinguishable from the rest of your teeth in most cases. Made of porcelain and zirconia, these crowns closely mimic the translucency and light reflectivity of natural tooth enamel. Your dentist can also match the shade of your crown to the color of the rest of your teeth.

Can Anyone Get CEREC Same-Day Crowns?

CEREC same-day crowns can be an effective and convenient solution for the majority of patients who have the following issues:

• The tooth is significantly weakened by infection and needs reinforcement and protection.
• The tooth is chipped or cracked.
• The tooth is worn out due to bruxism or improper bite.

However, if the tooth’s structure is severely damaged by infection, or it's broken at the gumline, it may be extracted and later replaced with a bridge or implant.

Get Same-Day Crowns at Watt Antelope Family Dentist

If you need CEREC same-day dental crowns, do not hesitate to make an appointment with an experienced family dentist at our office. We use state-of-the-art equipment and methods to deliver reliable results. We are looking forward to your visit.