CEREC Crowns Pros and Cons

Technology has made a dramatic impact on many industries in the last twenty years and dentistry is not to be left out. CEREC at wake dental care dentistry now includes the CAD/CAM process to fabricate dental crowns. Eliminating the dental lab from the fabrication, the crowns now can be made right in the dental office in only one visit. Like technology though in all industries, one can always find advantages and disadvantages. Following are a list of Pros and Cons if you are looking at a CEREC crown.

The Pros or Advantages of a CERAC Crown

The number one advantage is your time. The entire CEREC crown process can indeed be completed in just one visit. After the teeth are cleaned a 3D camera creates an image which is run through a software program to complete a precision mold. From there a computer driven milling machine fabricates the crown out of a solid block of porcelain or composite resin. Just like that the crown is completed in the dental office bypassing the dental lab. You just eliminated another dental visit. The digital image is quick and no is putty used to make an impression as well.

One can argue another advantage is not only the time gained from no second visit but also any discomfort associated with going through a temporary crown while one waits for the permanent crown to be fabricated at the lab.

A good argument can be made for precision. The 3D supported mold can and will be more precise than the elastic putty so the final fit is and can be better. The fit and feel is close to perfect. The look can be close to perfect. It has also been documented that the sensitivity of the tooth is not as noticeable with the less time involved.

The Cons or Disadvantages of a CEREC Crown

A disadvantage can be the lack of color options when dealing with the solid block of material. The latitude of choices does not exist. This often times means that the CEREC crown is better for the back molars versus any front teeth.

One can argue that sometimes the final crown may not be as strong as a lab fabricated crown. It is an argument because CEREC crowns can last 10-15 years based on individual oral hygiene.

A disadvantage for some patients would be the increase in costs. You can expect to pay around 20% more for this final product. Another opportunity to address the value of your time. You will also want to make sure your dentist is licensed and properly trained to use this technology.

The Final Takeaway, or Benefits, or still Subjective for CEREC

Whether it be a CEREC crown or a traditional crown, either way it will be an improvement in your ability to bite, chew and even smile. Your smile is invaluable. You will be advised to heed the instructions of the dental industry and proceed with brushing twice a day and flossing at least once a day. It is also very proactive to continue to see your dentist twice a year for continued evaluations along with professional teeth cleaning.

More on CEREC Crowns : How Much Do CEREC Crowns Cost?