CEREC Crowns vs. Traditional Crowns

CEREC crowns and traditional crowns are two distinct approaches to dental restorations that have revolutionized the world of dentistry. When it comes to restoring damaged or decayed teeth, patients are often presented with a choice between CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) crowns and traditional crowns.

Both options serve the same purpose of restoring the structural integrity and aesthetics of a tooth, but they differ significantly in terms of the process, time and convenience involved.

What is a CEREC Crown?

CEREC crowns, which stand for Chairside Economical Restorations of Esthetic Ceramic crowns and are also called CEREC same-day crowns, are created using computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology. Unlike traditional crowns, CEREC crowns are designed, fabricated and placed in a single visit. The process involves using a 3D scanner to capture the digital impression of the target tooth. This data is then sent to an in-office milling machine, which crafts the crown from a block of ceramic material, perfectly matching the patient's tooth color.

What is a Traditional Crown?

Traditional crowns, often called dental crowns or caps, are like personalized tooth hats. They're used to fix and protect a tooth that's been damaged or has decayed. These "hats" are crafted from materials like porcelain or metal to cover the entire visible part of the tooth, making it strong, functional, and natural looking.

Traditional crowns involve taking physical impressions, sending them to an external dental lab, and placing a temporary crown while the permanent one is fabricated.