CEREC crowns are one of the newest restorations of this type and considered to be one of the greatest achievements in the field of dentistry in recent years. Unlike conventional crowns that require multiple appointments over a week or more, CEREC crowns utilize the latest computer-aided design and manufacturing technology, referred to as CAD/CAM) to plan and create bespoke crowns from a single piece of porcelain.

Here’s what you need to know about the pros and cons of choosing CEREC over traditional crowns.
 

PROS of CEREC Crowns

No messy impressions. Unlike conventional crowns that require dentists to use putty to make impressions of the teeth for the crown to be made, CEREC crowns are planned using 3D digital impressions of your teeth. This is carried out using a small camera that is inserted into the mouth and takes multiple images in order to create a highly accurate 3D image of your teeth. This imaging process is completely painless.

Improved fit. As we know, with CEREC crowns the impressions are taken using cutting-edge technology rather than just using putty. These high-resolution images allow for a superior level of accuracy when compared to those created using traditional impression techniques. This ensures that your crown will be created in the exact dimensions needed to be a perfect and comfortable fit.

Speed to restore your smile. The traditional process for getting a dental crown takes place over two appointments, usually spaced at least a week apart. This is because it takes time for the impressions to be turned into your crown. However, if you choose CEREC crowns, you can have your smile fully restored in just two hours. This is possible because the digital impressions are sent directly to the manufacturing machine which receives them and creates your crowns to the exact specifications provided while you wait.  

Natural and comfortable. Many experts agree that the accuracy with which CEREC crowns can be created, and the option to glaze them in the perfect color to match your other teeth, helps to make CEREC crowns the closest in appearance to our natural smile. There’s also no post-operative sensitivity.

Long-lasting. CEREC crowns are not only very durable because they are milled directly from a solid block of material, but they are a great investment in the longevity of your teeth and smile. On average, you can expect them to last for around 10-15 years, but with great care and regular attention from your dentist, they could remain strong and healthy for much longer.  
 

CONS of CEREC Crowns

Unsurprisingly, there is only really one disadvantage associated with CEREC crowns and that is that their initial cost can be greater than that of traditional crowns. However, experts and patients alike agree that the benefits of CEREC fair outweigh the cost, meaning that the treatment actually represents excellent value for money and a valuable investment in your smile.
 

PROS and CONS of Traditional Crowns

Of course, all of the positive associated with CEREC crowns doesn’t mean that there’s anything wrong with the traditional variety. They have been used successfully for many years. They still:

-       Successfully restore the strength and appearance of teeth that have been moderate to severely damaged or decayed.
 

-       Act as a strong, sturdy solution.
 

-       Are fairly durable, lasting as long as 10 years.

However, as time moves on and further innovations in dentistry have been made, more modern solutions like CEREC simply offer greater advantages over the traditional techniques.

Some of the issues that patients who opt for traditional crowns might face include:

-       The unpleasant experience of conventional impressions being taken with putty and molds.
 

-       Chipping and cracking of the porcelain where it is fused to a metal shell that creates the shape of the crown (in porcelain-fused-to-metal or PFM crowns).
 

-       The need for multiple appointments to take impressions, prepare the teeth, and fit the crowns.
 

-       The need for temporary crowns while the final ones are being created.
 

-       A greater risk of tooth sensitivity, which has been associated with conventional crown procedures.

Unsurprisingly, these issues mean that a growing number of patients are now turning to CEREC crowns to restore their smiles.

If you would like to find out more about CEREC crowns or to schedule a consultation to see if you are a good candidate for this solution, please contact our dentist in Riverview today.