We get a lot of questions about CEREC crowns at Simpsonville Dental Associates. It’s an innovative technology, so it makes sense to be curious.
Let’s cover 1 of your top questions today. Actually, let’s make it 11!
Find out how CEREC same-day crowns work, how they save you time and money, why they’re safe, and much more.
1. What is a CEREC same-day crown?
All dental crowns are tooth caps that cover the top and sides of a tooth that’s severely decayed, giving you a new surface for chewing.
A CEREC same-day crown is even more convenient because it’s created and placed on your tooth during a single appointment, right in the dental office.
A suite of specialized technologies lets us restore your tooth in 1–2 hours, rather than weeks with traditional crowns.
2. How does CEREC work?
When you get a CEREC same-day crown, we’ll put you through a quick process:
- Scanning: We use digital imaging to scan your teeth, taking impressions without traditional impression putty.
- Designing: We turn your digital impressions into a model of your crown using design software.
- 3D Milling: Our machine in the next room mills your crown out of a block of ceramic in about 15 minutes.
- Placing: Your dentist polishes your crown and places it on your tooth.
We’ll show you the results and make sure you’re happy with your new smile.
3. How long does a CEREC crown last?
An average CEREC crown lasts about 10–15 years, which is around the same amount of time that a traditional crown lasts.
Plus, you can help them last as long as possible by:
- Avoiding grinding your teeth or clenching them together.
- Brushing and flossing daily.
- Getting a dental checkup every six months.
4. Is CEREC worth the money?
Yes, we think so and recommend CEREC crowns to our patients. And many of our patients tell us that they love getting a crown in a single appointment. Plus, CEREC:
- Is Convenient: You don’t have to wear a temporary crown for weeks, getting your final crown immediately.
- Saves Time: With traditional crowns, you might need to take time off of work, drive out of your way, arrange a babysitter, etc., to have an appointment. With CEREC, you only need one visit.
Our patients are happy with the cost of CEREC crowns, because of the value they get for their money.
5. Is CEREC safe?
CEREC crowns are as safe as traditional crowns. The innovative process happens in another room when the crown is quickly designed in our software and milled with our CEREC machine.
It is a safe dental appliance once the crown is bonded to your tooth. It is milled from ceramic, which is biocompatible.
6. Are CEREC crowns as good as traditional crowns?
Yes, in general, CEREC crowns are just as good because they:
- Last about the same number of years.
- Withstand the same chewing forces.
- Look as good (or even better).
In some cases, though, a crown that includes metal will bond more strongly to a patient’s tooth, making it more wear-resistant.
Also, a traditional crown will fit better if a tooth is fractured below the gumline.
If a traditional crown is the best solution for you, we’ll give you the information you need to make a good decision for your own health.
7. Are CEREC crowns covered by insurance?
With any dental service, insurance coverage varies based on the plan details. But many plans do cover at least part of the cost of crowns, while some plans cover 100%.
8. Are CEREC crowns durable?
Yes. Their durability is comparable to traditional dental crowns. They’re sturdy. They resist daily wear and tear.
CEREC crowns are milled from solid ceramic blocks created for this purpose. Research…Open a new window to the NCBI article… shows that the resulting crowns are very durable when the right techniques are used—which we follow.
Plus, here’s how to contribute to the durability of your own crowns:
- Don’t chew on extra-hard things like candy or ice.
- Avoid smoking.
- Don’t open packages with your teeth.
- Cut down on sugary foods and drinks.
- Brush twice a day, and floss once a day.
9. Are CEREC crowns more expensive than traditional crowns?
The price tag can be higher, yet the overall cost is often lower. How?
Because traditional crowns require two or three appointments, along with a temporary crown, these add to the cost.
In contrast, a CEREC crown may start at a higher price, but they cut your appointments down to one and avoid temporary crowns altogether.
Ask us for a cost estimate and comparison, and we’ll help you make an informed decision, along with providing payment options.
10. What does CEREC stand for?
CEREC is an acronym that stands for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics.
That’s because you can receive your great-looking ceramic crown while you’re in the dental chair during a single appointment.
11. Does getting a CEREC crown hurt?
No, it should feel about the same as any other procedure—or give you even less discomfort.
We will numb your mouth before the service to take away the pain. We often recommend over-the-counter painkillers to keep you comfortable too.
Our team always keeps in mind that many patients are anxious about dentistry, so we put compassion first during every appointment. Let us know anything you need to stay comfortable.
Sedation dentistry, including laughing gas, is an option if you experience dental sensitivity or anxiety.
Get reliable CEREC crowns in Simpsonville, SC
In about an hour, your new CEREC crown will be ready and bonded to your tooth. We’ll make sure that you are happy with the esthetic qualities of your beautiful crown.
We’re excited to use this advanced technology to give you a fast, convenient, durable, cost-effective crown in a comfortable, caring environment. Contact Simpsonville Dental Associates for an appointment now.
Or:
- Call us at (864) 963-3601
- Email us at sda@smiledox.com
Our office is located in Simpsonville, SC…Open a new window for directions in Google Maps…, and is proud to serve the neighboring communities, including Woodland Village, Mauldin, and Fountain Inn.