Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramic (CEREC) is a dental technology used to create dental restorations. A few common reasons for getting a CEREC crown are severe tooth damage from decay or injury, to restore the look or function of a tooth, or for a root canal or dental implant. CEREC is a machine that some dentists can have in-house to create custom outlays, inlays, or crowns in only a few minutes. This machine is revolutionizing how restorative or cosmetic dentistry operates; with advanced technology, you can have a perfectly functioning crown in just one visit to the dentist.
How Does it Work?
A CEREC machine works by using advanced computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) technologies to make very precise 3D scans of a patient’s mouth, particularly in the area where a restoration is needed. The machine creates outlays, inlays, or crowns out of a ceramic block. After the ceramic piece is created, it is then color-matched to the patient’s tooth to give it a natural appearance. This process reduces the need for temporary restorations and multiple visits to the dentist.
Same-Day Procedure
Without a CEREC machine, the dentist has to scan your teeth, send the scans to a lab where the item is fabricated, and then have it shipped back to the dentist’s office. That process can take weeks. Oftentimes, throughout that process, the dentist will have to fix you with temporary dental restorations requiring multiple follow-up visits for the patient. With a CEREC machine, a crown can be created in around 20 minutes. Overall, the convenience of a CEREC machine is unmatched, especially if you have a very busy schedule.
CEREC Crown Longevity
On average, a CEREC ceramic crown can last between 10-15 years and, with excellent care, 20-30 years. Maintaining proper oral hygiene is still very important even if your crown is brand new. Excellent dental care will extend the lifespan of your CEREC crown. To optimize its lifespan:
- Wear a custom night-guard if you grind or clench your teeth at night
- Wear a custom mouthguard if you are playing sports
- Avoid chewing on hard objects such as ice or candy
- Do not use your teeth as a tool
- Eat a balanced diet and limit sugar intake
- Avoid drinks that can cause stains, such as coffee, red wine, or dark sodas
- Gently brush your teeth at least twice a day
- Floss at least once per day
- Schedule a routine checkup every six months for an oral exam and cleaning
How Much Does a CEREC Crown Cost?
The cost of a CEREC crown often depends on the dental needs, location, and insurance. For a crown, on average, you can expect the cost to be anywhere between $500 and $1,500 per tooth.
If you have a decaying, damaged, or missing tooth and want to explore whether you are eligible for a CEREC crown, contact your dentist by phone or email to schedule a consultation.
If you have a CEREC crown and want to learn more about its longevity or how to improve your oral habits to better take care of it, please contact your dentist for more information. Either way, do not hesitate to reach out; we are always here to assist you.
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