Dental crowns are a powerful way to improve the appearance and function of your teeth. They can even save a badly damaged tooth that you might think is hopeless. The big limitation of dental crowns is that they require multiple visits to complete. This means you have to schedule a second visit, which means extra time and inconvenience, plus you have to wear a temporary crown, which doesn’t look very attractive and sometimes doesn’t last long enough. CEREC fixes all these problems by letting us make your crowns at our office so we can place them in one day. No temporaries, no second visit. Just beautiful, durable dental crowns.
Do you need a dental crown and want the convenience of getting it in one day? Please call 760.832.7915 today for an appointment with restorative dentist Dr. Rod Strober, serving the entire Coachella Valley from Country Club Dentistry in Rancho Mirage.
What Dental Crowns Can Do
Dental crowns are powerful restorations that can beautify, support, and protect your teeth. As a result, we use them in many different situations, including:
- Rebuilding worn teeth
- Repairing decayed teeth
- Strengthening cracked teeth
- Protecting a tooth after root canal therapy
- Restoring a tooth with a large, failed filling
- Achieving cosmetic effects of a veneer
- Completing a dental implant
Dental crowns are usually used for restoring damaged teeth. The source of damage can be wear, decay, or trauma. But usually the damage is serious and requires the strength, support, and protection provided by a dental crown.
That’s why dental crowns are often used to protect teeth after root canal therapy. Root canal therapy removes the internal structure of the tooth, so a crown is often used to provide additional support, as well as protection. It’s also used when a large filling fails, compromising the structural integrity of a tooth.
Sometimes, we use dental crowns for cosmetic purposes, similar to veneers, but we only use them when the changes required need more structural support.
And, of course, a dental crown is often the crowning achievement of a dental implant procedure. The dental implant is technically just the replacement root–a crown replaces the visible part of the tooth.
Difference Between Crowns and Veneers
Veneers usually fit on just one side of the tooth, while a crown fits over the entire part of the tooth above the gumline, like a cap (which is another name for them).
CEREC Crowns Good As Those From A Dental Lab?
Yes! CEREC crowns have as good success and survival rate as lab-made crowns, but they give us more control, and they’re more convenient.
Benefits of CEREC Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are good restoration, but CEREC dental crowns are even better, because they:
- Can be completed in one day
- No need for temporary crowns
- No need for a second visit
- Look as good and last as long as lab-made crowns
- Give your dentist more control
- Are easier to revise or replace
Of course, the biggest benefit of CEREC is that we can complete the procedure in one visit. You don’t have to wear a temporary crown while the lab makes your permanent crown, and you don’t have to make time and suffer the inconvenience of a second visit.
Plus, CEREC crowns look as good and last as long as lab-made crowns. Sometimes, they look even better–Dr. Strober can control the exact shading of the crown so he can make sure the color match is absolutely perfect.
Plus, CEREC crowns are easier to revise or replace. In the rare situation where a dental crown doesn’t fit, you don’t have to wait another two weeks (and make another visit) for a revised crown, we can remake it right away. Plus, if your crown gets damaged because of an accident or is lost because it didn’t bond properly, we can easily make a replacement at our office.
Other Uses for CEREC
We use CEREC most often for dental crowns, but that’s not all it can do. In fact, it can make any type of ceramic restoration, and in our office, we sometimes use it for:
- Inlays
- Onlays
- Dental bridges
Inlays and onlays are a type of ceramic filling that we use when a tooth is too damaged for a composite filling, but not damaged enough to need a dental crown.
Dental bridges are a tooth replacement option made of two dental crowns that support a replacement tooth between them. It’s a good replacement option, but its uses are limited, and it’s usually not as good a choice as a dental implant.
What Are CEREC Dental Crowns?
CEREC dental crowns represent a modern and innovative solution in restorative dentistry, offering a convenient and efficient alternative to traditional crowns. CEREC, which stands for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics, utilizes advanced CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided Manufacturing) technology to create custom dental crowns in just one visit.
The process begins with a digital scan of the patient's tooth, eliminating the need for messy impressions. This digital model is then used to design a precise, perfectly fitting crown that matches the natural color and contour of the surrounding teeth. Once the design is complete, the crown is milled from a high-quality ceramic block in the dental office. The entire process can typically be completed within a couple of hours, allowing patients to leave with their permanent crowns on the same day.
Care and Maintenance of CEREC Crowns
Caring for your CEREC crown is essential to ensure longevity and keep the health of your surrounding teeth and gums. Fortunately, CEREC crowns are made from high-quality ceramic, which is both durable and resistant to staining. However, like any dental restoration, they require proper care to keep them in optimal condition.
- Oral Hygiene: Maintain a consistent routine; brush twice daily, floss, and maintain regular dental check ups. We recommend a soft toothbrush and gentle toothpaste to avoid scratching your crowns. Also make sure you are using proper flossing technique to prevent plaque buildup around the vrown and gumline.
- Regular Dental Checkups: Vist your dentist regularly for checkups and professional cleanings. During your visit, the dentist will pay extra attention to the crowns to ensure they remain in good condition.
- Avoid Hard Foods: While CEREC crowns are durable, it's best to avoid biting down on hard foods or objects, like ice, certain candies, or pens, as this can potentially damage the crown or cause it to chip.
- Nighttime Protection: If you typically grind or clench your teeth at night, consider wearing a nightguard to protect your CEREC crown from excessive pressure, which could lead to wear or damage over time.
- Healthy Diet: A diet with vitamins and minerals supports overall oral health, including the strength of your natural teeth and the longevity of your crown. Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks, which can cause decay and gum disease.
Why Choose Country Club Dentistry
At Country Club Dentistry, we are committed to providing our patients with the most advanced dental care. Our dedication to cutting-edge technology ensures that you receive state-of-the-art treatment, including CEREC dental crowns. Dr. Rod Strober, a highly experienced cosmetic dentist with 26 years of expertise, brings his successful approach to Rancho Mirage after practicing in Boston and San Diego.
Dr. Strober is deeply involved in the dental community, both locally and regionally, and continuously enhances his skills by attending seminars, joining peer groups, and staying current with the latest materials and techniques. His dedication to excellence in dentistry has earned him a Fellowship from the Academy of General Dentistry, a testament to his commitment to delivering the highest quality care. When you choose Country Club Dentistry, you're choosing a practice that prioritizes your dental health with the most innovative and effective treatments available.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long do CEREC crowns last?
CEREC crowns are highly durable and can last 10-15 years or more with proper care. The crown's longevity depends on factors such as oral hygiene, diet, and regular dental check-ups.
Is the CEREC crown procedure painful?
The CEREC crown procedure is typically not painful. Your dentist first will apply a local anesthetic to numb the area, ensuring you remain comfortable. Most patients report little to no discomfort during or after the procedure.
How much time does it take to create a CEREC crown?
Creating a CEREC crown takes about one to two hours. The procedure, including preparation, scanning, milling, and fitting the crown, is usually completed in a single visit.
What is the cost of a CEREC crown compared to a traditional crown?
The cost of a CEREC crown is generally comparable to that of a traditional crown. While prices vary depending on location and the dentist's expertise, CEREC crowns may sometimes be slightly more expensive due to the advanced technology used.
Can I eat immediately after getting a CEREC crown?
Yes, you can eat immediately after getting a CEREC crown. However, avoid hard or sticky foods for the first 24 hours to allow the cement to set fully.
Are CEREC crowns as durable as traditional crowns?
Yes, CEREC crowns are made of a high-quality ceramic material that are as durable as traditional crowns. They are specially designed to withstand the normal forces of chewing and biting.
Is there a risk of the CEREC crown falling off?
While rare, there is a small risk of a CEREC crown falling off, just as with any dental crown. This can occur if the underlying tooth structure is compromised or the crown is not properly bonded. Regular check-ups and good oral hygiene help minimize this risk.
Curious about CEREC in Coachella Valley?
Do you need a dental crown and want to learn whether CEREC is a good option for your tooth repair? Please call 760.832.7915 today for an appointment with cosmetic dentist Dr. Rod Strober at Country Club Dentistry in Rancho Mirage.
