Same Day Dental Crowns

The CEREC system, an acronym for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics, represents a cutting-edge technology in the field of dentistry.

This advanced system is designed to create dental restorations, such as crowns, inlays, and onlays, in just one appointment. By harnessing the power of CAD/CAM technology – computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing – dentists can produce highly accurate and precise restorations compared to conventional methods that involve manual impressions and off-site lab fabrication.

CEREC single-visit restorations boast solid ceramic construction, rendering them virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth and capable of withstanding moderate chewing forces.

Owing to the choice of material, these restorations are not only more visually appealing but also considerably more durable.

The CEREC process eliminates the requirement for temporary restorations, often fashioned from resin, which can be uncomfortable and unsightly for patients.

What is CAD/CAM technology?

CAD/CAM technology is a game-changer in dentistry, enabling practitioners to create dental restorations with exceptional precision and accuracy through the integration of computer software and hardware.

The process commences with the dentist examining the patient's teeth and preparing the damaged tooth for a CEREC crown. Subsequently, an intraoral camera captures several static images of the patient's teeth, which the computer software assimilates to generate a 3D model.

This digital representation empowers the dentist to design the dental restoration meticulously, ensuring an impeccable fit and optimal functionality.

Once the design phase culminates, the dentist handpicks a ceramic block that closely resembles the patient's natural tooth color. The CAD/CAM system then employs a milling machine to carve the restoration from the selected ceramic block.

The result is a precise, tailor-made restoration that can be placed in the patient's mouth the very same day, precluding the need for multiple visits.

The Benefits of CEREC Technology

CEREC technology boasts a myriad of advantages for patients and dentists alike. For patients, the convenience of a single appointment is unparalleled, saving valuable time and reducing disruptions to daily routines, such as missed work or school days.

Moreover, CEREC restorations are crafted from solid ceramic, which is not only aesthetically superior to traditional materials but also remarkably more durable. Ceramic restorations are less prone to cracking or chipping and can better withstand the forces of chewing and biting.

The utilization of dental software for dental restorations ensures CEREC crowns are more likely to blend seamlessly with the patient's other teeth, making them less conspicuous.

Despite the numerous advantages, in specific cases, traditional crowns and caps may be a more suitable choice for anterior teeth than CEREC crowns.

The CEREC system employs an impressive combination of 3D-imaging software, computer-aided design (CAD) software, and a sophisticated CEREC machine that fabricates the ceramic block used for the restoration.

Getting the Impression

Rather than resorting to dental putty and manually creating a mold, the CEREC process begins with capturing a 3D image of the patient's teeth.

This innovative technique utilizes a specialized CEREC camera, which not only ensures a more comfortable experience for the patient, but also generates a highly accurate replica of the dentition.

The digital scan enables the dentist to pinpoint the precise areas in need of restoration, while minimizing waste and inefficiencies associated with traditional impressions.

Designing the Crown

Leveraging cutting-edge CAD software, the dentist scrutinizes the 3D image and expertly identifies the regions requiring correction.

The software then generates an exact blueprint for the CEREC machine to follow, ensuring the final restoration is accurately shaped and sized.

The dentist can tailor the crown's design to harmonize with the patient's natural tooth color and contour, resulting in a seamless and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Creating the Crown

The CEREC machine, guided by the digital blueprint, meticulously mills the ceramic block into the desired shape of the crown.

This process is exceptionally efficient, as the machine utilizes only the necessary amount of material, significantly reducing waste.

Compared to traditional crowns, CEREC-created crowns boast a stronger ceramic material, making them more resistant to daily wear and tear.

Placing the Crown

Upon completion of the crown, the dentist bonds it to the patient's natural tooth. Custom-made to fit the tooth impeccably, the CEREC crown prevents potential discomfort or gum complications that may arise from ill-fitting crowns.

To further enhance the natural appearance, the dentist paints and polishes the crown, ensuring it blends seamlessly with the surrounding teeth.

This advanced technology allows patients to receive a high-quality, durable restoration in a single visit, solidifying CEREC crowns as the preferred choice for those with busy schedules.

CEREC dental crowns have revolutionized restorative dentistry, offering a plethora of advantages over their traditional counterparts. In contrast to the conventional method, which entails two dental appointments, CEREC crowns streamline the process into a single visit.

This innovative technology not only saves time but also minimizes discomfort and enhances the overall patient experience.

Time Efficiency and Convenience

CEREC dental crowns are a game-changer when it comes to time efficiency and convenience. This cutting-edge technology enables dentists to design, fabricate, and place a custom dental crown within a matter of hours.

Patients no longer need to endure multiple appointments or wear ill-fitting temporary crowns, as CEREC crowns provide a seamless and expedited restoration process.

Accuracy and Precision

The level of accuracy and precision achieved with CEREC dental crowns is unparalleled. Utilizing computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology, dentists can create a crown that fits snugly and requires minimal adjustments, if any at all.

In comparison, traditional dental crowns often necessitate multiple modifications due to the potential for human error during the impression-taking stage.

CEREC crowns enable dentists to meticulously fine-tune the crown's appearance, guaranteeing a harmonious blend with the patient's existing dentition.

Looks and Feels Natural

Restorative dentistry aims to mimic the form and function of natural teeth, and CEREC crowns excel at achieving this goal. Crafted from high-quality ceramic or resin materials, these crowns can be customized to match the patient's teeth in color, shape, and texture.

The end result is a natural-looking restoration that seamlessly integrates into the patient's smile.

No Temporary Crown Needed

CEREC dental crowns eliminate the need for a temporary crown, an often-uncomfortable and inconvenient interim solution. Temporary crowns, required during the fabrication process of traditional crowns, can cause sensitivity and may become dislodged, resulting in discomfort.

CEREC technology streamlines the restoration process, allowing patients to leave the dental office with a permanent, custom-fitted crown in place.

Less Invasive Procedure

The CEREC dental crown procedure is less invasive than traditional methods, providing an enhanced patient experience. Owing to the digital imaging technology used for CEREC crowns, there is no need for the cumbersome alginate impressions associated with conventional techniques.

CEREC crowns often necessitate less tooth reduction, preserving more of the patient's natural tooth structure. This minimally invasive approach results in a more comfortable procedure and a quicker recovery time.

Short answer: Typically under 2 hours.

Longer answer...

In stark contrast to the traditional dental crown procedure, which can span several weeks and require multiple appointments, the process is astoundingly efficient; often completed within a mere two hours in a single visit.

The Traditional Dental Crown Procedure Time

To grasp the significance of CEREC technology, it's essential to understand the intricacies of the traditional dental crown process.

Typically, a dentist would need to prepare the tooth by removing decay or damage and shaping it to accommodate the crown. Then, they'd take an impression of the tooth, creating a mold that a dental laboratory would utilize to fabricate the crown.

During the 2-3 week waiting period, the patient would wear a temporary crown to protect the tooth. Finally, the patient returns to the dentist to have the permanent crown placed and cemented onto the tooth.

The CEREC Procedure Time

CEREC technology has transformed the dental crown experience, making it remarkably swift and convenient.

In one appointment, a dentist utilizes a small intraoral camera to capture a 3D impression of the tooth. This impression generates a digital model of the crown, which is then sent to the milling machine.

Using computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology, the machine meticulously cuts and shapes the porcelain to match the digital model.

The outcome is a high-quality porcelain crown with a remarkable resemblance to natural teeth.

Once the crown is ready, the dentist places it on the tooth, making any necessary adjustments for a perfect fit and bite.

This streamlined process eliminates the need for temporary crowns and multiple appointments, making it a highly attractive option for busy patients.

Our dental crowns cater to a diverse range of dental concerns, including:

• Strengthening cracked or weak teeth
• Replacing missing teeth
• Covering dental implants

With proper care, these crowns boast an average lifespan of 10-15 years, providing patients with a durable and long-lasting solution to various dental issues.

Short answer: No. The crown procedure is relatively painfree. We've consistently had people tell us how surprised they were that it wasn't painful.

Longer answer...

The pain-free nature of the dental crown procedure can be attributed to the strategic use of local anesthesia during tooth preparation, ensuring minimal discomfort for the patient. Moreover, water is employed throughout this stage, maintaining the tooth's temperature and further alleviating pain.

Unlike traditional dental crown procedures, CEREC eliminates the need for temporary crowns, as the final crown is crafted and installed during the same visit.

Painless Scanning and Milling

CEREC dental crowns employ state-of-the-art digital technology for a seamless, painless scanning and milling process.

By capturing digital impressions of the prepared tooth, the uncomfortable and messy traditional impressions become obsolete. The digital impressions serve as a basis for a 3D tooth model, which guides the subsequent milling of the final crown.

Requiring less than an hour, the milling process allows patients to comfortably relax in the dental chair.

Painless Bonding and Finishing

The dental crown procedure's bonding and finishing stages are similarly devoid of pain.

Following the crown's milling, it is affixed to the prepared tooth using dental cement, which is then rapidly cured by a specialized light, ensuring a secure bond.

Dentists meticulously examine the bite and make any required adjustments to guarantee the crown's optimal fit and comfort.

The entire dental crown process spans approximately two hours, enabling patients to leave the dental office with a fully restored smile after just one visit.

While some patients might encounter mild soreness for a few days post-procedure, this discomfort is typically minimal and short-lived.

However, if pain persists or intensifies, it's imperative to promptly contact our office - 904-262-2551.

On average, the lifespan of a CEREC dental crown is akin to that of traditional crowns, typically spanning 10 to 15 years.

With diligent care and maintenance, however, crowns can surpass this average, offering patients a worthwhile investment in their oral health.

Factors Affecting Longevity

A crown's longevity hinges on several factors, such as diet habits, oral hygiene routines, and the proficiency of the dentist responsible for placing the crown.

Selecting a dentist well-versed in CEREC technology is paramount to ensuring optimal results. Moreover, patients should monitor their intake of dark-colored foods and beverages, as these can lead to unsightly discoloration over time.

Sidestepping detrimental habits, like chewing on ice, pens, or other hard objects, helps to maintain the crown's structural integrity.

Adhering to a rigorous oral hygiene regimen is essential for prolonging the life of a crown.

This includes:

• Brushing teeth twice daily
• Flossing once a day
• Scheduling regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings.

For those prone to grinding their teeth at night, wearing a custom nightguard can provide additional protection against undue wear and tear.

Durability of the Material

Thanks to CAD/CAM technology, CEREC crowns boast remarkable accuracy and precision.

The high-quality ceramic material used to create these crowns is not only incredibly robust but also bears a striking resemblance to a natural tooth.

Consequently, CEREC crowns have become a highly sought-after option among patients seeking restorations that seamlessly blend in with their existing teeth.

The fabrication process for CEREC crowns begins with a digital camera capturing a 3D model of the patient's tooth.

This digital rendering allows for unparalleled precision compared to conventional putty impressions, culminating in a crown that fits and functions impeccably.

The entire procedure—designing, creating, and placing a crown—takes place in just one appointment, sparing patients the inconvenience and discomfort typically associated with traditional dental crowns.

As a permanent and cost-effective solution, crowns' extended lifespan may yield significant long-term savings for patients compared to traditional crowns, which often necessitate more frequent replacements.

A candid discussion with your dentist about the advantages and drawbacks of both CEREC and traditional dental crowns can help you make an informed decision tailored to your unique needs.

Short answer: Maintaining your dental crowns will be very similar to taking care of your natural teeth. Brush twice a day. Floss. Avoid chewing on ice or other overly hard foods. Keep up with your biannual dental appointments.

Longer answer...

Maintaining the lifespan of your crown is contingent upon practicing excellent oral hygiene.

Brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and rinsing your mouth after ingesting dark beverages to avert staining is vital.

While flossing, ensure you gently wrap the floss around the crown and glide it along the sides just below the gum line, effectively eliminating debris and inhibiting plaque accumulation around the crown.

Scheduling regular dental appointments is essential for monitoring the crown's condition and addressing potential issues promptly.

Avoid Certain Foods and Habits

Safeguarding your dental crown necessitates being mindful of your dietary choices and specific habits.

Refraining from chewing hard and sticky foods like ice, popcorn kernels, and hard candies can prevent crown cracks or dislodgement.

Limiting the consumption of sugary edibles and beverages also helps avert tooth decay, which can impair the crown.

Circumventing the use of your teeth as tools for opening packages or nail-biting can prevent damage to your crown.

Address Sensitivity and Discomfort

Post-CEREC procedure, tooth sensitivity is a common occurrence. Manage this discomfort with over-the-counter pain medications as required.

Persistent sensitivity or discomfort in the tooth following a root canal warrants consulting your dentist, as it could signal that your crown has been positioned too high above your gums.

Wear a Mouthguard at Night

To protect your crowns from potential damage caused by nocturnal teeth clenching or grinding, wearing a mouthguard is advisable.

Mouthguards can be procured at pharmacies and sporting goods stores or custom-fitted by your dentist for a seamless fit.

By shielding your crown from undue pressure and wear, you can extend its longevity, preserving its appearance and functionality.

A CEREC dental crown appointment is a game-changer in the world of restorative dentistry, offering patients the luxury of receiving a high-quality, tailor-made crown in a single visit.

This cutting-edge technology not only eliminates the inconvenience of temporary crowns and multiple appointments but also ensures a seamless and comfortable experience.

Let's delve into the intricacies of a CEREC dental crown appointment:

Reducing Anxiety

Dental anxiety or phobia can significantly hinder a patient's willingness to receive essential dental care.

As an oral health advocate with in-depth knowledge, I recognize the importance of addressing these apprehensions.

Open communication with your dentist is crucial, as they can provide you with sedation options tailored to your comfort and ensure a positive experience throughout the procedure.

The CEREC Appointment Process

The journey commences with a comprehensive examination of your teeth by an experienced dentist to ascertain if a CEREC dental crown is the most suitable treatment option.

Bear in mind that in certain cases, patients may require supplementary dental treatments, including root canals, to restore their tooth to optimal health before receiving a crown.

Local Anesthetic

Prior to the procedure, the dentist administers localized anesthesia to numb the tooth and the surrounding area, assuring you a comfortable and pain-free experience.

It's worth noting that the presence of infection or damage in the target tooth will not result in any discomfort during or after the procedure, thanks to the anesthetic.

Preparation of the Tooth

Armed with specialized dental tools, such as an 811 barrel bur and an egg/football diamond bur, the dentist meticulously removes decay or damage from the tooth and shapes it for the crown.

The aim is to establish a relatively flat occlusal table with well-defined, smooth margins and rounded internal line angles. This precision minimizes overmilling and guarantees a perfect fit for the crown.

Scanning and Milling

With the tooth prepared, the dentist captures a digital impression using a state-of-the-art intraoral camera.

This 3D image is used to create your custom crown with the help of a CEREC milling machine. The machine carves your crown from a block of high-quality ceramic material, ensuring unparalleled precision and accuracy.

Remarkably, this process takes a mere 15-20 minutes, allowing you to receive your crown in just one appointment.

Bonding and Finishing

The final step involves bonding the crown to your tooth using a robust dental adhesive.

The dentist carefully checks the fit and makes any necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable and natural bite.

Once polished, your new, fully functional crown is ready for action.

Remember, maintaining regular dental care is vital to ensure the longevity of your CEREC dental crown, just as it is for your natural teeth.

CEREC same day dental crowns, an innovative solution for tooth restoration, come with a cost that depends on several factors.

In Jacksonville, FL, the price range typically falls between $500 and $1,500 per crown.

While it may appear steep at first glance, the myriad of advantages offered by CEREC technology — including convenience, efficiency, and high-quality materials — makes it worth considering.

The Cost of CEREC Crowns

Though the initial cost of a CEREC same day dental crown might seem more substantial than traditional crowns, the long-term benefits often outweigh the expense.

The single-appointment approach for measurement, molding, and fitting not only saves time but also reduces overall treatment costs. Furthermore, CEREC crowns are crafted from premium materials that boast durability and longevity, minimizing the need for frequent replacements.

While the cost of CEREC crowns can vary depending on factors such as the number of teeth involved and the materials used, the price range of $500 to $1,500 is only slightly higher than that of traditional dental crowns.

With the added benefits of convenience and efficiency, CEREC crowns are a worthy investment.

CEREC isn't a one-size-fits-all solution for every dental crown procedure.

To determine if CEREC crowns are the optimal choice in your specific case, a thorough consultation with our office is essential.

Benefits for Certain Dental Crowns

For most dental crown procedures, CEREC crowns offer numerous advantages.

A prime example: restoring anterior teeth, where aesthetics are of utmost importance.

With their lifelike appearance and feel, ceramic crowns used in CEREC procedures can be customized—painted and polished—to flawlessly mimic natural teeth, making them the go-to option for cosmetic dental restorations.

Another noteworthy benefit of CEREC technology is the elimination of the interim phase involving temporary crowns.

Unlike traditional dental crown procedures, which necessitate wearing temporary crowns while awaiting permanent ones from a dental lab, CEREC crowns are designed and installed in a single appointment.

This streamlined process not only saves time and discomfort but also cuts down on dental visits and associated expenses.

CEREC crowns also involve less tooth reduction, resulting in a more conservative and less invasive dental restoration experience.

Limitations for Certain Dental Crowns

For instance, when it comes to molars—requiring more durability and strength than anterior teeth—CEREC crowns may fall short.

Metal crowns or porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns can provide a more robust bond and enhanced durability compared to ceramic crowns.

Another potential drawback of CEREC technology is its reliance on a camera to capture tooth images.

In certain cases, the camera may struggle to accurately capture images below the gum line, which can affect the precision of the restoration.

Several types of ceramic materials can be used in CEREC dental crowns, each offering unique advantages.

Zirconia Crowns

Zirconia crowns have gained popularity in the realm of CEREC dental restorations, thanks to their unparalleled strength and durability.

Derived from zirconium dioxide, a highly robust crystal, zirconia crowns boast resistance to wear and tear, and can endure tremendous pressure. This makes them a prime choice for molars and those prone to teeth grinding.

Although their slightly opaque appearance may be less aesthetically pleasing than other dental crown options, the trade-off in strength and longevity makes zirconia crowns highly sought after.

Emax Crowns

Emax crowns, composed of lithium disilicate glass-ceramic, marry the robustness of zirconia with the translucency of porcelain.

This cutting-edge material enables the creation of dental restorations that blend seamlessly with natural teeth. Emax crowns are milled from a single ceramic block using computerized systems, facilitating their production and fitting within a single appointment.

Apart from their remarkable aesthetic qualities, Emax crowns also possess strength and durability, rendering them an alluring choice for discerning patients.

Short answer: Yes.

Longer answer...

CEREC crowns, fashioned from ceramic material, cater to diverse dental needs, irrespective of the tooth's location in the mouth.

These crowns are not only durable and long-lasting but also designed and installed using cutting-edge computer technology.

This makes them an efficient and advanced method of restoring teeth.

Unlike temporary crowns, CEREC crowns fit perfectly and don't cause any teeth or gum issues.

They conceal tooth imperfections and can be painted and polished, creating a flawless appearance.

A significant advantage of CEREC crowns is the convenience of completing the dental restoration in a single appointment.

Strength and Aesthetic Factors

Though CEREC crowns are appreciated for their strength and durability, they don't quite measure up to the robustness of metal or porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns.

Metal crowns bond better with teeth and offer greater durability.

However, when aesthetics come into play, CEREC crowns emerge as a more viable option due to their natural appearance.

Among the best crown materials, zirconia stands out for its strength, resistance to fractures, and aesthetic appeal.

E-Max crowns share similarities with zirconia but boast a slightly more attractive look.

Zirconia and E-Max crowns are the most popular choices for front teeth restorations.

Short answer: Yes. CEREC crowns can be designed to match your existing teeth. We have patients who have forgotten which tooth was their crown.

Longer answer...

One of the salient features of CEREC crowns is their remarkable capacity for color matching.

During the initial digital scanning phase, the dentist records the shade of the patient's adjacent teeth—an essential step for achieving a harmonious and cohesive appearance.

Advanced computer algorithms then calibrate the crown's hue, facilitating a highly accurate color match.

Given the extensive palette of shades available, CEREC crowns can be tailored to suit virtually any individual's unique dental presentation.

Look and Feel of CEREC Crowns

In addition to their chromatic fidelity, CEREC crowns mimic the tactile properties of natural tooth enamel, courtesy of the ceramic or resin materials used in their construction.

Utilizing digital scanning technology to capture the precise dimensions of the prepared tooth, CEREC crowns deliver exceptional fit and finish. By emulating the original tooth's shape, size, and contours, these restorations integrate seamlessly with the patient's existing dentition, heightening their lifelike appearance.

Advantages of CEREC Crowns Over Traditional Crowns

CEREC crowns offer several advantages over traditional restorations.

For one, their streamlined fabrication process expedites treatment, circumventing the need for multiple appointments, temporary crowns, and extended waiting periods associated with laboratory-fabricated restorations.

The ceramic or resin composition of CEREC crowns affords a more natural appearance compared to metal-based alternatives, mitigating the risk of allergic reactions and eliminating unsightly metallic discoloration.

It is important to bear in mind that CEREC crowns may not be suitable for all patients or every type of dental issue.

An in-depth consultation with your dentist will help determine the most appropriate treatment plan tailored to your specific oral health needs.

Suppose CEREC dental crowns aren't the optimal solution for your specific dental needs.

In that case, several other dental restoration methods could be more suitable, depending on your unique dental condition and requirements.

Such alternatives encompass partial coverage inlays or onlays, resin composite, and natural tooth restoration techniques.

Partial Coverage Inlays or Onlays

As a more conservative alternative to CEREC dental crowns, partial coverage inlays or onlays aim to preserve the tooth structure without necessitating excessive grinding.

These custom-made restorations fit snugly into or onto the prepared cavity of a tooth, typically crafted from ceramic or composite materials and securely bonded to the tooth using dental adhesive.

Inlays come into play when the cavity is confined within the tooth's cusps, while onlays are employed when the cavity extends beyond the cusps.

Both options demand less tooth removal during the preparation phase than traditional dental crowns, preserving more of the natural tooth structure.

Resin Composite

Resin composite, a tooth-colored blend of plastic and glass, hardens within the oral cavity upon exposure to primary blue light.

Favored for its ability to seamlessly blend with surrounding teeth, this material is frequently used to fill cavities and repair chipped or fractured teeth.

An advantage of resin composite lies in its minimal tooth preparation requirements compared to traditional dental crowns.

However, it is not as robust as other dental restoration materials like ceramic or metal, making it unsuitable for larger restorations or teeth subjected to substantial biting forces.

Natural Tooth Restoration

Natural tooth restoration techniques offer an alternative to grinding down a worn or damaged tooth and cementing a hollow crown over the nub – a process that can be wasteful, uncomfortable, and even painful.

Instead, these methods focus on using dental materials to reconstruct the tooth to its original form and size.

More conservative than traditional dental crowns, natural tooth restoration necessitates minimal removal of the tooth structure during preparation.

A variety of materials can be employed in this process, including resin composite, ceramic, and even gold.