CEREC (Crowns in one visit)

Cerec is a sophisticated computer based treatment system used to make crowns, fillings, veneers and bridges. With this system a crown can be completed in one visit. Digital images are taken of your teeth and then the restoration is milled while you wait.

Procedure

Exam and Preparation

First, your tooth is examined to determine the appropriate treatment. It could be a simple filling, or a full crown, depending on how much healthy tooth structure is remaining. Anesthesia is administered then your tooth is prepared for the restoration, removing decayed and weakened tooth tissue. This preparation is just like we would do for many other restorative techniques.

Digital Impression

Then, a digital impression is taken of the prepared tooth. Instead of filling a tray with impression "goop" that you must bite into and hold in your mouth until it hardens, your teeth are covered with a non-toxic, tasteless powder. A camera is then used to take a digital picture of your tooth. This whole digital impression process only takes a minute or two.

No Temporaries

Next, the CEREC® machine helps to create the restoration for your tooth. The CEREC® 3D software takes the digital picture and converts it into a 3-dimensional virtual model on the computer screen. Within a few minutes the restoration design data is sent to a separate milling machine in the office. A ceramic block that matches your tooth shade is placed in the milling machine. About 10 - 15 minutes later, your all-ceramic, tooth-colored restoration is finished and ready to bond in place. Finally, we try the restoration in your mouth to ensure proper fit and bite. The restoration is then polished or baked and bonded to the prepared tooth. Your tooth is restored with no "temporary" or return trip necessary. All of this is done in a single appointment! Ask us about CEREC® today.

*Harvard Health Letter, March 2000; NIDR of NIH, Dental Amalgam Study, 1993.