Traditional dental crowns require two or more appointments, temporary crowns, and weeks of waiting. CEREC technology changes that because it allows Dr. Patricia Chao to design, mill, and place a permanent ceramic crown in a single visit at Chao Dental Studio in Santa Clara.
CEREC stands for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics. The system uses a 3D digital scanner to create a precise model of the tooth, computer-aided design software to create the crown, and an in-office milling unit to carve the crown from a block of high-quality ceramic. The entire process takes approximately 60 to 90 minutes.
Traditional crown procedures require gooey impression material that many patients find uncomfortable. CEREC eliminates this step because a small digital camera captures a detailed 3D image of the tooth in seconds, providing a more accurate and comfortable experience.
The most significant advantage of CEREC is convenience. Patients receive a permanent crown in a single visit because there is no need to wait for an outside dental lab. This means no temporary crown, no second appointment, and no additional time away from work or daily activities.
Digital scanning and computer-aided design produce crowns with exceptional accuracy because the technology maps the tooth and surrounding teeth to create a restoration that fits precisely. This precision reduces the need for adjustments and improves long-term durability.
CEREC crowns are made from a single block of tooth-colored ceramic that is matched to the shade of the surrounding teeth. The result is a restoration that blends seamlessly with the natural smile because the ceramic material mimics the translucency and color of natural tooth enamel.
Dr. Chao may recommend a CEREC same-day crown for teeth that are cracked, fractured, or significantly decayed. Crowns are also used to restore teeth after root canal therapy, to replace old metal fillings, and to strengthen teeth that have large existing restorations. Because the procedure is completed in one visit, it is an ideal option for patients with busy schedules.
Dr. Chao prepares the tooth and uses a digital camera to capture a 3D image. This scan replaces the traditional putty impression and takes just minutes to complete.
Using the digital model, Dr. Chao designs the crown on a computer screen, adjusting the shape, size, and bite for optimal fit and appearance. Patients can see the design before milling begins.
The milling unit carves the crown from a solid ceramic block in approximately 10 to 15 minutes. Dr. Chao then polishes and bonds the crown to the tooth, checking the fit and bite before the patient leaves.
CEREC crowns are made from high-strength ceramic that is designed to withstand normal biting and chewing forces. Studies show that CEREC restorations perform comparably to traditional lab-made crowns because the ceramic material is strong, biocompatible, and resistant to staining. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups at Chao Dental Studio help ensure long-lasting results.
Most CEREC appointments are completed in 60 to 90 minutes because the scanning, design, milling, and placement all happen in the same visit.
CEREC crowns are made from high-quality ceramic materials that provide comparable strength and durability to traditional lab-made crowns. They are suitable for both front and back teeth.
Most dental insurance plans that cover traditional crowns also cover CEREC crowns because they are considered the same type of restoration. The team at Chao Dental Studio will verify coverage before treatment begins.