What are CEREC Dental Crowns?

Need a dental crown but dread the thought of multiple appointments and wearing a temporary crown for weeks? Well, thanks to CEREC dental crowns, you don’t have to. This innovative restorative dental treatment turns what was once a lengthy, multi-appointment process into a comfortable, same-day solution. 

This modern dental technology isn't just about convenience; it provides a lasting, high-quality restoration that looks and feels natural. Over 85% of CEREC restorations remained clinically successful after 10 years, highlighting their impressive durability and effectiveness. 

Read on to discover how same-day crowns work, how to decide if they’re right for you, and where to find the best CEREC crowns in Los Altos. 

What Are CEREC Same-Day Dental Crowns?

Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics (CEREC) is a type of crown that is custom-made from ceramic using advanced CAD/CAM technology. Unlike traditional crowns, which require multiple appointments and temporary crowns while waiting for a dental lab to fabricate the permanent restoration, CEREC technology enables dentists to design, mill, and place permanent ceramic crowns in a single visit. 

The process involves taking digital 3D scans of the prepared tooth, using computer software to design the crown, and then milling it from a ceramic block using an in-office machine, typically completing the entire procedure in about two hours. 

While CEREC crowns may initially be more expensive, they offer exceptional durability and save time by eliminating the need for temporary restorations.

The CEREC Procedure: Step-by-Step

Getting a same-day crown begins with a visit to a skilled dental professional who prepares your damaged tooth for restoration. After tooth preparation and addressing any tooth decay, they then use an intraoral scanner to capture precise 3D digital images of the tooth and surrounding area. This 3D digital imaging eliminates the need for traditional, messy dental impressions by using innovative digital impressions. 

Next, using specialized computer-aided design (CAD) software, the dentist designs the crown to match the exact specifications of the digital scan. This includes considering factors like fit, bite alignment, and aesthetic appearance to create a restoration that appears like a natural tooth structure. 

Once the design is complete, the data is sent to an in-office milling machine, which carves the crown from a solid block of ceramic material. Typically, this only takes around 15-20 minutes. Lastly, the dentist checks the crown's fit, makes any necessary adjustments, and permanently bonds it to the prepared tooth using dental cement. The entire process is completed in a single appointment that usually lasts about two hours.

Benefits of CEREC Dental Crowns in Los Altos

CEREC crowns offer several significant advantages over traditional dental crowns: 

• The most notable is the convenience of same-day treatment, which eliminates the typical two-to-three-week wait for a dental laboratory to create a crown and the multiple appointments required for traditional crowns. 
• This single-visit approach also removes the need for temporary crowns, which can be uncomfortable and prone to falling out while waiting for permanent restoration. 
• The high-grade ceramic material used in CEREC crowns provides excellent aesthetic results. It can be color-matched to surrounding teeth and mimics the natural look of tooth enamel. 
• Studies show that CEREC crowns demonstrate durability and longevity comparable to or better than traditional crowns.

CEREC crowns are also metal-free and biocompatible, which are important factors for many people, especially those who want a natural-looking smile. 

Where to Find the Best CEREC Same-Day Dental Crowns in Los Altos 

Whether you're a busy professional, parent, or someone who values your time and smile, CEREC crowns offer the perfect blend of efficiency, quality, and long-term reliability. If you’re considering where to find the best crowns in Los Altos or Mountain View, look no further than Lagemann Family Dentistry.

Under the caring guidance of Dr. Augie, who is highly skilled and warmly regarded by the Los Altos community, Lagemann Family Dentistry offers exceptional care with the latest CAD/CAM technology, including same-day dental crowns, at our conveniently located Mountain View cosmetic dental office. Patients often share how our bright and inviting atmosphere helps them feel relaxed, turning visits to the dentist into a delightful and worry-free experience. With a deep commitment to restorative dentistry, Dr. Augie leads a committed team working diligently to ensure that every type of restoration is crafted with precision. 

Ready to get the best same-day dental crown in Los Altos that seamlessly blends with your natural smile?