When it comes to repairing severe tooth damage, dental crowns are one of the best options. In the past, you had to wear a temporary crown for a few weeks, while waiting to get your permanent one. But did you know that if your dentist has the right technology, you can get a crown the same day?
The newest type of crowns, known as CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramic) crowns only take one appointment. But how do they compare to traditional dental crowns? We compare the pros and cons of CEREC vs. traditional crowns below, to help you understand the differences.
CEREC vs. Traditional Crowns: How Do They Compare?
Materials
In the past, traditional and CEREC crowns were made of different materials. But today, both types of crowns are commonly made from zirconia and are strong enough to withstand the long-term pressure of biting and chewing.
However, some of the other materials often used for traditional crowns can make the tooth more prone to sensitivity. Traditional crowns made of porcelain fused to metal can also be more vulnerable to chips and cracks.
Procedure
Traditional and CEREC crown procedures both begin with removing the decayed portion of the tooth. However, one significant advantage that CEREC crowns have over traditional crowns is that they can be placed in a single appointment.
After your tooth is prepped, your dentist takes a digital impression of your mouth, and then the CEREC crown is designed and fabricated right in the office. Your permanent crown can then be placed and adjusted in the same appointment.
Traditional crowns are much less convenient. Taking an impression for a traditional crown involves using a messy, bad-tasting dental putty. Then a temporary crown will need to be placed while the permanent crown is created in a third-party laboratory. You will need to return for another appointment after about two weeks later to get your permanent crown.
Lifespan
As long as you take good care of your oral health, both traditional and CEREC crowns can last around 15 years. It’s important to brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and see your dentist twice a year for exams and cleanings to ensure that your crown lasts as long as possible. However, no crown is invulnerable. Bad habits like teeth grinding or chewing on hard objects can cause a crown to chip or crack.
Appearance
Both traditional and CEREC crowns are shaped and colored to look just like natural teeth. But CEREC crowns mimic the translucency of natural teeth, so they look even more seamless than traditional crowns. Plus, the advanced technology used for making CEREC crowns allows for much more precise contours, particularly for the back teeth. This allows for easier, more accurate placement so there’s less need for final adjustments that take extra time.
Cost
Considering the fact that CEREC crowns use more advanced technology, many people assume that they will cost significantly more. But in reality, the cost for CEREC and traditional crowns is exactly the same.
Improve Your Smile Faster with CEREC Dental Crowns
If you’re experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity, you may need a dental crown to save your tooth. CEREC same-day crowns can improve your smile and your dental health in a single appointment. To schedule a consultation for same-day crowns in Daybreak, Utah, call Copper Creek Dental at 801-280-1911 today.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (7/25/2023). Photo by Elizeu Dias on Unsplash