CEREC Same-Day Crowns: 4 Common Questions

Nowadays, dentists are able to create and place dental crowns in a single appointment thanks to the state-of-the-art CEREC system. If you’re trying to decide whether a CEREC same-day crown is right for you, chances are that you have a few questions about this technology. Below are brief yet helpful answers to 4 common inquiries that many patients have when it comes to CEREC.

1. How Do CEREC Same-Day Crowns Work?

The process of getting a CEREC same-day crown involves the following steps:

• The dentist takes digital impressions of the tooth that needs to be repaired.
• Special software is used to design a crown that’s the right size and shape for your smile.
• The new restoration is created out of a block of ceramic material by an in-office milling machine.
• The completed crown is attached to the tooth.

2. How Durable are CEREC Same-Day Crowns?

Even though CEREC same-day crowns are made in just one visit, they are just as durable as traditional crowns. In many cases, a CEREC crown can last around 10 to 15 years. That said, durable isn’t the same as indestructible. If you want to keep your CEREC crown for as long as possible, you should avoid using it to bite down on especially hard foods such as peppermints or ice cubes.

3. Do CEREC Same-Day Crowns Look Natural?

CEREC same-day crowns are made out of a biocompatible ceramic material that can be shaded to match the color of your natural teeth. As such, once your new CEREC crown has been attached to your tooth, it will look like a natural part of your smile. Most people meeting you for the first time likely won’t even realize that you have a crown.

4. Are CEREC Same-Day Crowns Covered by Dental Insurance?

As long as your CEREC same-day crown is considered medically necessary, your dental insurance plan will likely help pay for it. Coverage for a dental crown is typically around 50%. Of course, the exact percentage can vary depending on which dental insurance plan you have; it’s a good idea to review your benefits and make sure you understand them before you move forward with the process of getting a CEREC crown.

The questions listed above are just a few examples of things that patients tend to ask about CEREC same-day crowns. Your dentist will be more than happy to answer any additional questions you might have so that you can make a fully informed decision about your care.

About the Author

Dr. Steve W. Cobb went to Baylor School of Dentistry for his dental degree. He has well over four decades of dental experience, and he is proud to be able to put his extensive skills and knowledge to good use by helping patients protect and improve their smiles. At his current practice in Odessa, he offers CEREC same-day crowns as a quick solution for damaged teeth. If you’re interested in getting a CEREC crown, you can schedule an appointment with Dr. Cobb by visiting his website or calling (432) 367-4774.