What is the CEREC Machine?

The revolutionary CEREC system designs and generates porcelain dental crowns, sometimes called caps, in just one visit. Generally, dental crown procedures take two visits or more to complete and require the patient to wear a temporary crown that may be uncomfortable. The CEREC machine provides patients with a faster, more esthetic result, less injections and drilling, and no temporary crowns or goopy impressions, all while preserving more of the natural structure of your teeth.

How do same day crowns with the CEREC machine work?

Your Espire dentist will begin the procedure by preparing the tooth in the same manner they would a traditional dental crown, sometimes called a cap. Next, they will take a digital image of the tooth using a special camera instead of taking an impression of the tooth (like a traditional crown procedure). The digital image is then brought up on one of the flat screen televisions right next to the dental chair so they can use it to guide the design of the crown.

Once your Espire dentist perfects the newly designed tooth, the data is sent to the CEREC machine which then creates the tooth exactly to their specifications. The process of creating the crown can take as little as six minutes! The final step is adhering the crown to finish the procedure, ensuring that the dental crown matches the surrounding teeth.

What are the benefits of the same day crowns with the CEREC machine?

The biggest benefit of a same day dental crown procedure is time and convenience. Instead of requiring the patient to come back for a second visit, the entire procedure can be completed in one scheduled visit. Because a crown procedure will be completed the same day, only one set of injections is necessary, lending itself to greater patient comfort. Same day crown procedures eliminate the need for a temporary crown. Temporary crowns may fall off and cause problems, which could add extra trips to the dental office. The CEREC machine gives your Espire dentist more control of how the final crown will look and fit. Another benefit of the CEREC machine is that the crown material is stronger, which means the crown lasts longer. With proper oral care, a CEREC crown may have to be replaced less often.

Porcelain Dental Crowns

A porcelain dental crown cemented to your original tooth works like a protective cover, to reinforce and strengthen the tooth. Strong, and with a natural look, it combines form and function. Dental crowns can be used for front teeth or back teeth and help to correct a more severe tooth breakdown or more extensive decay. In some cases, a traditional dental crown, or cap, is recommended by your dentist. In other cases, a same day crown may be best for you. Ask your Espire dentist whether a same day dental crown or traditional crown is recommended for your specific needs.