What is CEREC?
Over the years, dental technology has come a long way in most aspects of oral health. This is especially true in restorative care when teeth are damaged or decaying. New technologies offer patients faster and more convenient options to restore the health and function of their teeth. One innovation that is growing rapidly in popularity is CEREC. CEREC is a system that allows dental professionals to design and create custom restorations right in the office. If you are wondering what CEREC is or if it is a good fit for you, read on to learn more.
What is CEREC?
CEREC stands for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics. CEREC is a method used by dentists to create ceramic restorations, like crowns, bridges, veneers, and inlays. CEREC allows dentists to create the restorations without needing to send impressions out to a lab. Instead, everything from imaging to milling is done on-site in the dental office. This makes the entire process faster and more streamlined.
The system relies on computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing technology. Once a patient’s tooth is prepared, the dentist takes a digital scan of the mouth using advanced imaging equipment. That scan is used to design a custom restoration that fits the exact tooth structure. Then, a milling machine carves the restoration from a high-quality ceramic block, which is shaped and adjusted to fit the tooth. Finally, it is bonded during the same appointment.
What Can CEREC Be Used For?
CEREC serves many purposes in a Dental office. It can be used to make many important things for maintaining a person’s oral health and function. It can be used to create:
- Crowns
- Inlays and onlays
- Fixed bridges
- Dental veneers
- Implant restorations
- Dentures
- Certain orthodontic appliances
This level of versatility makes it a useful tool for restoring damaged teeth or improving aesthetics.
What Are the Benefits of CEREC?
One of the main reasons patients choose CEREC restorations is the convenience. Traditional crowns and restorations typically require at least two appointments, one to prep the tooth and take impressions, and another weeks later to place the final restoration. CEREC allows patients to restore their tooth all in one visit.
CEREC also removes the need for temporary crowns, which can sometimes be uncomfortable or unreliable. Because the entire design and milling process is handled in-office, the dentist has full control over the final result as well.
The digital impressions taken with CEREC are extremely precise. They are often more accurate than traditional molds. That accuracy contributes to better-fitting restorations and, ultimately, longer-lasting results.
Are There Any Drawbacks?
While the benefits are clear, CEREC isn’t the perfect solution for every situation. For one, not all dental practices offer CEREC, since it requires investment in both equipment and training. Cost is also a downside. CEREC crowns can be more expensive than traditional lab-made options because of the advanced technology needed.
What’s the Bottom Line?
CEREC is a powerful tool for patients who want speed, precision, and convenience in one visit. Like any dental treatment though, it’s not one-size-fits-all. The best way to know if it’s right for you is to speak with your dentist. They’ll help you understand your options and choose the solution that works best for your specific needs.
