CEREC Same-Day Crowns – Colchester, VT

A Professional-Grade Restoration Made in a Single Visit

Patients who are struggling with a moderately chipped, cracked, decayed, or otherwise compromised tooth will traditionally require a dental crown to fix it, which could take at least a couple of visits to complete. However, at Elevate Dental, our team can use CEREC technology to construct personalized ceramic caps after one visit. The results are just as reliable as traditional crowns and you’ll be able to enjoy your new smile in no time. Read on to learn more or give us a call to schedule an appointment.

What are CEREC Same-Day Dental Crowns?

a 3D illustration of a dental crown

CEREC stands for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics. At Elevate Dental, we use the 3shape Scanning System and the Dentsply/Sirona Primemill which are some of the most advanced technology available on the market.

  • The 3shape digital infrared camera that captures precise and detailed images of your tooth and converts them to a 3D model
  • Our doctors use a specialized CAD/CAM software that they use to design restorations based on the digital model
  • The Primemill grinding/milling machine precisely carves out a same-day dental crown using four high speed burs

This treatment is extremely convenient for repairing damaged or decayed teeth, especially if you have a time crunch. Speak with our team if you’re interested in this option so that we can determine if you’re a good candidate for this dental restorative option.

The Process of Getting a CEREC Same-Day Dental Crown

a CEREC same-day crown being placed in a milling device

Similar to traditional crowns, our team will first prepare your natural tooth by reshaping and removing a small amount of your enamel to make room for your dental crown. We’ll also provide you with a local anesthetic to keep you pain-free throughout the process.

Instead of using sloppy putty, we’ll take a digital impression of your smile, which will then be transferred through the computer to our in-office milling device. After about an hour, this machine will perfectly carve out your custom dental crown from a block of zirconia or other ceramic, which will match the size, shape, and color of a natural tooth.

Once completed, we’ll try in new crown to see if it’s a perfect fit. Our team will make any minor adjustments if necessary. After we’ve verified that you're satisfied with the results, we’ll cement it and you’ll be free to make the most of your new smile!

The Benefits of CEREC Crowns vs. Traditional Crowns

a patient smiling after receiving her dental crown

CEREC dental crowns come with a range of advantages, such as:

  • Convenience: Instead of waiting several weeks to restore your tooth, CEREC crowns can be completed in just a single visit.
  • Digital Impressions: Back in the day, traditional crowns required the use of messy and uncomfortable putty to take impressions of your teeth. CEREC is completely digital, meaning you’ll expect a more convenient and comfortable process.

CEREC Same-Day Dental Crowns FAQs

How Durable are CEREC Crowns?

CEREC same-day dental crowns offer similar protection and strength as lab-made ceramic and porcelain crowns. Most of the time, same-day crowns are made from a solid block of dental porcelain. This material is great and mimics the natural appearance of enamel by reflecting light, and it is incredibly durable.  CEREC crowns can last between 10 and 15 years or longer when cared for properly.

Who is Eligible to Receive a CEREC Same-Day Crown?

Same-day dental crowns can be used to treat all of the same problems as lab-made dental crowns. Most of the time, CEREC crowns are recommended for patients who have a tooth that is cracked, misshapen, or severely damaged. Same-day crowns can also be used to protect a tooth with a large filling or address cosmetic concerns, like severe discoloration.

What is the Difference Between Traditional and Same-Day Crowns?

There are a few main distinctions between traditional and same-day dental crowns. First of all, same-day dental crowns are crafted by your dentist, not in a laboratory. This means that the same person oversees the entire creation process. This starts from taking impressions all the way to placing the crown. This can lead to more accurately-fitted restoration and a better overall appearance. Same-day dental crowns are also created and placed in the same appointment, eliminating the need for a temporary crown.

Will I Have Dietary Restrictions with a Same-Day Crown?

One of the great benefits of CEREC dental crowns is that you don’t need a temporary dental crown. This means that you don’t have to worry about a nondurable restoration being dislodged if they eat certain foods. Your same-day dental crown will be strong and durable, so it will be able to withstand basic day-to-day use, like chewing food. However, it’s still important that you take steps to protect your dental crown, like wearing a mouthguard while playing sports and avoiding bad dental habits, like munching on ice cubes.