Traditionally, dental restorations are fabricated by a dental lab and require a minimum of two appointments for placement. CEREC® technology brings the dental lab to your dentist’s office, allowing your dentist to make the restoration during one appointment and shortening the amount of time that you have to wait for your tooth restoration. Because of this, CEREC® restorations are also known as single visit or same day restorations.
Did You Know?
CEREC® is an Acronym
- Chairside: The technology is in the dental operatory and used while you are in the chair
- Economical: The procedure is economical for both dentist and patient
- Restorations: The procedure restores your tooth to its natural beauty, function, and strength
- Esthetic: The restorations are metal-free and tooth-colored
- Ceramic: High-strength ceramics are used that are close in composition to your natural tooth structure
Frequently Asked Questions:
Am I a candidate for a CEREC® restoration?
You may be a candidate for a CEREC® restoration if you are in need of an indirect dental restoration such as an inlay, onlay, crown, or veneer. To determine if you are an ideal candidate for a CEREC® restoration, schedule a consultation with Dr. Dickey of Dickey Dental today!
What can I expect when getting a CEREC® restoration placed at Dickey Dental?
When getting a CEREC® restoration at Dickey Dental, you can expect a local anesthetic to be used to maintain your comfort during the procedure. Once the area is numb, Dr. Dickey will then remove any decayed tissue and/or shape the tooth to accommodate the restoration. The amount of preparation will depend on the presence and extent of tooth decay, as well as the type of restoration being placed. For example, a veneer would require minimal preparation, while a dental crown would require more significant preparation.
Once the tooth has been prepared, an oral scan will be taken of your mouth using a 3-D digital camera. This information will be uploaded to the milling machine and used to fabricate your dental restoration. Dr. Dickey will also be able to customize your restoration in terms of color, shape, and biting surface texture (if needed). The in-office milling machine will then fabricate your restoration while you wait.
In most cases, it takes about 60-90 minutes for the restoration to be fabricated. First, the milling machine will sculpt the shape and texture of the restoration. Next, it will polish or glaze the restoration according to the color specifications made by Dr. Dickey. Finally, the restoration will be fired to “set” everything in place. Once the restoration has cooled, it can be cemented in place, completing the process.
Will I need to follow any special instructions after my appointment?
Once your CEREC® restoration has been placed, you can immediately return to your normal routine. Since you will not have a temporary restoration, you will not have any temporary restrictions to follow. With that being said, however, it is recommended to abstain from eating until the numbness in your mouth wears off.
You will care for your CEREC® restoration just as you would your natural teeth. This means brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting Dickey Dental twice a year for an exam and cleaning. It is also recommended to avoid behaviors that can damage your teeth, such as: nail biting, chewing on ice, teeth grinding, or using your teeth to open packages.
