Traditional and CEREC Crowns – What are the Differences?

The crown of the tooth carries a major workload. Since it’s the part that sits above the gum line, it’s responsible for dealing with the dynamic environment inside your mouth. When it becomes badly decayed or damaged, the only remedy, often, is to replace it. There are two ways to go about this: a traditional or CEREC dental crown in Grafton. If you’re wondering how they differ and which may be better for you, then continue reading to get the answer from an expert!

What is a Traditional Crown?

With a traditional crown replacement, after any restorative work is completed (like a root canal), your dentist will take bite impressions. They will be sent to an in-network lab that will fabricate a new dental crown, and in about two weeks, it will arrive at your dentist’s office so he or she can permanently bond it into position.

If you’ve suffered a severe tooth fracture that extends below the gum line, a traditional crown may be the better option.

The Difference CEREC Makes

The most attractive feature of a CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) crown is that the entire process is completed in a single visit. Better yet, it typically only takes about two hours to fully restore your tooth.

This is made possible through a combination of the latest technology in computer-aided design (CAD) and modeling (CAM). After removing any damaged material, your dentist will immediately begin the design and fabrication process – all in-house.

Here are some of the specific perks of CEREC:

• Comfort – With a traditional crown, you’ll be fitted with a temporary fixture while the permanent crown is being fabricated. Many patients find it to be uncomfortable, which is a problem you won’t have to worry about with CEREC.
• Cost Savings – The CEREC process saves you money by eliminating the need for a second visit, temporary crown placement and the outsourcing of the crown fabrication.
• Injury Prevention – The temporary crown that is required with the traditional process can leave you susceptible to injury if it becomes loose or dislodges. This is a non-factor, though, when your tooth is completely restored in a single visit.
• Immediate Restoration – If you’ve been living with a damaged crown, then your life has been placed on hold for long enough. With CEREC, you can immediately get back to eating a normal diet, speaking clearly and enjoying all the other benefits of having a fully restored smile.

It Starts with a Visit

When you pay your dentist in Grafton a visit, you can learn more about the CEREC procedure and have a one-day complete restoration plan developed. Then, you’ll be able to experience the wonders of modern technology and expert dental care being combined into one cohesive package. A beautiful and functional smile await you!

About the Author

Dr. Joe Kern earned his dental degree from The Ohio State University College of Dentistry. Throughout his 22-year career, he has fervently pursued more knowledge, which has allowed him to stay abreast of the latest breakthroughs in dental technology. Dr. Kern creates gorgeous and functional smiles with CEREC same-day dental crowns at Kern Family Dentistry, and he can be reached for more information through his website.