Why Should I Choose CEREC over Traditional?
What is the most valuable commodity all of us share? Is it something like petroleum or land? A commodity that is truly limited in supply is our time. We do not live forever, so how we use our time is indeed valuable. If you place value on your time over material objects in your life, then a CEREC crown will be the right solution for you if you need a restoration. The primary benefit or number one advantage of a CEREC crown is simply that--your time. Following is the CEREC crown procedure, how it gives you time back, and then several other benefits you can expect over a traditional crown restoration.
The CEREC Crown Procedure
Technological advancements have had a major impact on many industries, including the field of dentistry. A CEREC procedure is completely based on a CAD/CAM system, or computer-aided design, driving computer-aided manufacturing. The procedure begins with skilled professional teeth cleaning, then a 3D camera is used to capture an image of the tooth needing repair. Next, a computer-aided impression is created from a 3D image, which is run through a software program to provide a precision mold. Instead of that impression being sent to a dental lab, the next step, right in the dental office, is using that same software to mill a restoration from a solid block of ceramic or composite resin. In just one visit, you have a permanent crown. By eliminating the fabrication at a dental lab, you have avoided a second visit for the crown placement, and you have also avoided a temporary crown placed as you wait.
Additional Benefits for a CEREC Crown
The CEREC crown comes with a higher price. You should expect to pay 20% more for this quicker procedure. It has been proven that life expectancy is about the same as a traditional crown, with neither being as strong as your natural teeth. You might find yourself choosing a traditional crown on a front tooth since the color shades are not as extensive with the solid blocks used in the CEREC process. The CEREC crown is perfect on a molar. The CEREC crown also delivers a near-perfect fit due to the 3D imaging used to make the mold.
Proper Care Extends the Life of Any Crown
Whether it be a CEREC crown or a traditional crown, it is strongly advised that you pay attention to your oral hygiene habits. By continuing to brush carefully and slowly twice a day and floss once daily, you can expect to get 10 to 15 years from your crown. Every six months, dental examinations, with professional cleaning, complement your efforts to protect yet another valuable asset of yours: your smile. A CEREC crown will fit so well that it will look just like a natural tooth, which will keep your smile as natural as possible. Whether it is buying some valuable time back in your life or knowing that innovative technology played a role in a state-of-the-art restoration, you cannot go wrong with a CEREC restoration.