17 May Tooth Restorations: How CEREC crowns can help
Dental crowns are commonly used in dentistry. These tooth-shaped caps protect teeth from damage and decay. Unlike a filling, crowns fit over the entire visible portion of a tooth. Because tooth decay is extremely common and teeth tend become damaged with wear and tear—especially in a patient’s later years—crowns are often necessary to prevent further damage to a tooth without having to extract it. Fortunately, our dentist offers CEREC, same-day crowns for patient convenience.
Why is a crown necessary?
Crowns may be necessary for a variety of reasons. In some cases, extensive tooth decay or tooth wear requires a crown because the tooth has lost its proper shape. When a crown is placed over a severely damaged tooth, it helps restore a patient’s bite. If one tooth is smaller than it should be from damage and wear, it can affect neighboring teeth along with the ability to chew food efficiently and properly. In some cases, worn down teeth may lead to TMJ dysfunction and malocclusions.
What is the procedure for receiving a crown like?
In the past, receiving a crown took two office visits over a span of a couple weeks. This is because crowns were created in dental laboratories. Instead of sending away measurements to a laboratory, our dentist can mill crowns chair side in our office.
Before determining the specifications of your restoration, our dentist will prepare your tooth for the procedure. This means that all decay and brittle areas will be gently etched away. The overall procedure is minimally invasive and only requires a mild, local anesthetic.
Using the CEREC machine, our dentist will take impressions of your teeth to create the exact specifications needed for your custom-made crown. The crown will then be cut from high-quality ceramic blocks right in our office. Instead of wearing a temporary crown between visits, patients receive their permanent crown in just over an hour.
CEREC crowns closely resemble the appearance of a natural tooth because they are made from white ceramic. In fact, your restoration is unlikely to be noticed by others.
To schedule an appointment with our dentist for restorative procedures or a checkup, contact our friendly team at 972-458-2464 today.