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July 15, 2024In the world of dentistry CEREC dental crown advancements in technology have significantly transformed the way dental procedures are performed, leading to more efficient, precise, and comfortable experiences for both dental professionals and patients. One such groundbreaking innovation is CEREC, which stands for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics.
This technology has revolutionized dental restorations by offering same-day solutions that eliminate the need for multiple appointments and temporary restorations. In this blog, we’ll explore how CEREC is reshaping the landscape of dental care, providing a comprehensive overview of its benefits, applications, and future implications.
The Traditional Approach to Dental Restorations
Before the new technology, dental restorations followed a conventional and time-consuming process that often spanned multiple appointments. The initial step typically involved taking physical impressions of the patient’s teeth using dental putty or other materials. These impressions could be uncomfortable for patients and sometimes yielded imperfect results due to distortions or inaccuracies.
Once the impressions were obtained, they were sent to a dental laboratory where technicians would fabricate the restorations, such as crowns or bridges, based on the dentist’s specifications. This process could take several days or even weeks, during which patients would be fitted with temporary restorations to protect their teeth and maintain functionality.
After the restorations were completed, patients would return to the dental office for the final placement. This often involved additional adjustments to ensure proper fit and alignment, which could prolong the treatment process and increase the overall time and cost involved.
Moreover, traditional restorations were sometimes associated with a degree of trial and error, as adjustments might be needed after the final placement to achieve the desired aesthetics and functionality. This iterative process could be frustrating for both patients and dental professionals and could result in delays in achieving satisfactory results.
Introducing CEREC Technology
CEREC technology represents a paradigm shift in dental restorations by leveraging CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing) technology to create custom restorations right in the dental office. The process starts with the digital scanning of the patient’s tooth, eliminating the need for uncomfortable traditional impressions.
Then, the scanned data is used to design a precise restoration digitally, which is then milled from a solid block of ceramic material using state-of-the-art milling machines. Finally, the restoration is colour-matched and bonded to the tooth, all in a single visit.

Benefits of CEREC in Dental Practice
The advantages of CEREC technology are manifold. Firstly, it enables same-day restorations, allowing patients to walk out of the dental office with fully restored teeth in just one visit. This eliminates the inconvenience and discomfort associated with multiple appointments and temporary restorations.
Additionally, CEREC restorations are known for their exceptional precision and accuracy, creating a perfect fit and optimal functionality. Furthermore, the streamlined workflow reduces the risk of errors and complications, leading to improved clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction.
Exploring CEREC Applications
CEREC technology is versatile and can be used for a wide variety of dental restorations, including dental crowns, inlays, onlays, and veneers. Dental crowns, in particular, are a primary application of CEREC, offering durable and natural-looking solutions for damaged or decayed teeth. Inlays and onlays, which are used to repair moderately damaged teeth, can also be fabricated with CEREC technology, providing minimally invasive alternatives to traditional fillings. Additionally, it enables the creation of custom veneers, which can enhance the appearance of teeth affected by discolouration, chips, or misalignment.
Overcoming Challenges and Criticisms
Despite its numerous benefits, CEREC technology is not without its challenges and criticisms. Some people have raised concerns about the accuracy and durability of the restorations, suggesting that traditional methods may yield better results in certain cases. Moreover, the implementation of CEREC requires training and education for dental professionals to ensure proficiency and competence. Additionally, cost considerations may pose a barrier to access for some patients, as CEREC restorations may be more expensive than traditional alternatives.
The Future of CEREC and Dental Technology
Looking ahead, the future of CEREC and dental technology holds immense promise. Ongoing advancements and innovations in CEREC are continually enhancing its capabilities and expanding its applications. Furthermore, the integration of CEREC with other emerging dental technologies, such as 3D printing, is opening up new possibilities for personalized and patient-specific treatments. Ultimately, the continued evolution of CEREC technology is poised to shape the future of dentistry, offering patients and dental professionals a higher standard of care.
Discover CEREC
CEREC technology is revolutionizing dental restorations by providing efficient, precise, and convenient same-day solutions. By eliminating the need for multiple appointments and temporary restorations, CEREC is reshaping the patient experience and raising the bar for clinical excellence in dentistry. As advancements in CEREC and dental technology continue to unfold, the future of dental care looks brighter than ever, promising improved outcomes and enhanced quality of life for patients around the world.
Experience the advantages of CEREC crowns for yourself! Contact us to see if you’re a candidate for CEREC crowns, and book an appointment with our experienced and helpful team.