CEREC Crowns Vs. Traditional Dental Crowns: Which Is Better?
Healthy teeth are critical for eating, smiling, and socializing with confidence. When your teeth are chipped, cracked, decayed, stained, or broken, you might experience discomfort, poor oral health, poor bite strength, and lower self-confidence. If you have significant tooth damage, you may want to consider dental crowns.
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap or covering placed over a damaged tooth to improve its strength and appearance. Since a crown covers the entire structure of the tooth, you can use it to modify the size, shape, and color of a damaged tooth. Visit our dental office in Longmont, CO, for dental crowns near you.
Difference Between Traditional and CEREC Crowns
When considering dental crowns, your dentist can give you the option to choose between a traditional crown or a CEREC crown. Learn more about the difference between the two and their pros and cons to help you determine which option is suitable for you.
What are CEREC Crowns?
Chair-side Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics crowns only require a single dental appointment. Unlike traditional crowns, CEREC crowns use Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) or Computer-Aided Design (CAD) machines, making them more efficient. The crown is sculpted from a sturdy block of porcelain, resin, or ceramic material by a computerized milling machine based on your teeth scans.
Pros and Cons of CEREC Crowns
Pros
- Fast and convenient. You only need one dental appointment to get the crown.
- CEREC crowns can be more comfortable and efficient since they are computer-generated.
- Looks like identical to natural teeth
- No messy impressions like traditional crowns
- No need to wear a temporary crown
- Same-day adjustments
Cons
- Not all patients are eligible for CEREC crowns. For instance, CEREC crowns can’t help with some types of tooth damage.
- Not all dentists have the technology to make CEREC crowns.
- CEREC crowns are a bit more expensive than traditional crowns.
What is a traditional crown?
A traditional crown is the most common procedure and requires two dental appointments. On the first appointment, your dentist prepares the tooth by shaving a small portion of the enamel. Next, impressions or mold of the prepared tooth and other records are taken and sent to a technician in a dental lab to create the customized crown. The process can take about 2 – 3 weeks.
In the meantime, the dentist places a temporary crown to protect the prepared tooth. You’ll have the second appointment once the customized crown is ready. The dentist will remove the temporary and test the customized crown. If all is as expected, the crown is permanently cemented in place.
Pros and Cons of Traditional Crowns
Pros
- Customized to match natural teeth
- Based on the material, a traditional can last for 15 years or more.
Cons
- Requires at least two dental appointments
- You have to wait for 2 – 3 weeks to get your crown. Adjustments may require more waiting time and appointments.
- You must wear a temporary crown which often requires special care.
- Risk of tooth sensitivity
CEREC Crowns Vs. Traditional Crowns. Which is Better?
Generally, both traditional and CEREC crowns are safe, effective, and long-lasting. If you’re looking for a quick and efficient solution to fix your dental imperfections, CEREC crowns might be ideal for you. Once you visit our restorative clinic, our dentist will review your tooth’s condition and needs to advise you on the best treatment to transform your smile.
Schedule an Appointment Today
Are you interested in dental crowns in Longmont, CO? Or perhaps you need other restorative treatments? Contact Mertz Family Dentistry to book your appointment.