Do you have a severely decayed or damaged tooth that needs repair, or have you recently undergone a root canal procedure? If so, you’ll likely be fitted with a dental crown to protect your tooth while simultaneously restoring its appearance and functionality.

Historically, being fitted with one of these tooth-shaped caps required multiple appointments, but thanks to more recent developments in dental technology and materials, that’s not always the case today. CEREC dental crowns can be created on the same day as your initial visit! If you’re unfamiliar with this treatment, continue reading for 3 of the most commonly asked questions to learn more about it.

FAQ #1: What is a CEREC Dental Crown?

It’s important to be well-informed about potential treatments so you can make well-educated decisions to care for your smile. CEREC stands for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics and consists of technology that allows your dentist to design and build your new tooth in a single visit. It utilizes CAD/CAM (computer-aided design/manufacturing) equipment to create and carve your tooth-shaped cap without involving a dental laboratory offsite, like the traditional method.

FAQ #2: How Long Does Getting a CEREC Dental Crown Take?

In the past, your provider had to make manual impressions of your teeth and send them along with images and measurements to a lab to build your prosthetic. That often meant patients had to wait weeks between their initial appointment and having their restoration bonded in place, increasing the likelihood that their damaged tooth would become infected.

With CEREC dental crowns, long waits are no longer a concern! Usually, it takes about an hour or two to complete the process. That means that by the time your dentist has prepared your tooth by thinning some of your enamel, your crown could be finished and ready to be bonded in place.

FAQ #3: Do CEREC Dental Crowns Last as Long?

It’s easy to think that you must surely be sacrificing quality for convenience if you consult with your dentist and receive your dental crown in the same visit, but that’s not the case. They’re typically made from an incredibly durable porcelain that can withstand the daily pressure of biting and chewing, just like traditional crowns. Not only that, but they can last 10 to 15+ years with the right care, so you’re not losing any longevity, either!

If you’re still unsure whether this treatment is right for you, the best way to find out is to schedule an appointment with your dentist!

About the Practice

At Fort Dental, people of all ages benefit from a team of dentists who work together to offer a full array of services at one convenient location. They share 40+ years of combined experience, so whether you require a basic checkup and cleaning or a more involved procedure like being fitted with a dental crown, they are experts who can help. Their family-friendly practice is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, including CEREC technology, to enhance your comfort and provide accurate, long-lasting results. If you have a damaged tooth that needs attention, you can request an appointment on the website or call (817) 292-5957.