CEREC vs. Traditional Crowns: Which One’s Right for Your Smile?

Dental crowns have long been used to restore the function and beauty of damaged or decayed teeth while preserving natural tooth roots. They provide a protective cover that stands up to biting and chewing, while at the same time preventing further decay. While crowns have been traditionally made in a lab, modern CEREC crowns offer same day solutions.

What is a CEREC crown?

CEREC stands for “chairside economical restoration of esthetic ceramics.” These crowns differ from traditional ones in that they don’t require the help of an external dental lab. Instead, the entire process from digital scans to milling the crown is done at your dentist’s office.

Your same day crown experience starts with your dentist preparing the affected tooth. Damaged and decayed material is removed, along with some additional enamel to form a uniform base. Your dentist will then take a digital scan of your smile using a handheld device, capturing the shape of the prepared base and the appearance of surrounding teeth.

The digital scan is processed using specialized software to create a plan for the dental crown. Your dentist will make use of this software to create a model of the crown that will provide a perfect fit and blend naturally with the rest of your smile. An automated milling machine then precisely sculpts the crown from ceramic material.

Your dentist can place the finished crown then and there. Unlike with traditional crowns, you don’t have to wait weeks for a dental lab to make and ship the crown. That also means there’s no need to wear an ill-fitting and unsightly temporary crown to protect the tooth while you wait.

What is a traditional crown?

The first few steps of getting a traditional crown are similar. Your dentist still has to prepare the tooth by removing enamel. Traditional crowns often call for physical impressions, where you bite down on dental putty to capture the shape of the prepared tooth and surrounding teeth. However, some processes today incorporate digital scans.

Impressions are sent to an external dental lab, where they prepare the custom crown. This is often made of porcelain, which requires specialized equipment to process. You can expect the process to take at least two weeks from your first appointment to the crown being ready.

Your dentist will place a temporary crown so that the prepared tooth doesn’t experience damage, sensitivity, or decay during that time. The temporary crown is effective in protecting the tooth, but it can have a less-than-perfect fit and won’t blend well with your smile.

Once the crown is ready, you’ll come back in for another appointment. Your dentist will remove the temporary crown, place the finished permanent crown, and make any necessary adjustments.

Key Differences to Consider

There are a few factors to consider when making your choice between a traditional and a CEREC crown. If fitting appointments into a busy schedule is a challenge, then same day crowns are likely the way to go since they require just one visit instead of two or more.

Comfort is another consideration. The physical impressions required for traditional crowns are uncomfortable due to the dental putty. Having to wear a temporary crown can also cause discomfort. The CEREC crown process is a better experience from start to finish.

Most CEREC crowns are made of ceramic materials such as zirconia or lithium disilicate. These materials are incredibly strong and durable, but most people consider porcelain to be the best choice in terms of aesthetics. Lab-made crowns can be crafted from an extensive range of materials, including porcelain for the most natural appearance.

Cost can also sway your decision. The individual price of a crown varies depending on many factors, so the only way to know for sure is to talk to your dentist. The specific options your insurance covers can also vary, so scheduling a consultation is essential to fully understand your choices.

Which option is right for you?

Should you go for a traditional or same day crown? If you’re in urgent need of a crown, a same day solution could be what you need. Your own personal preference when it comes to your schedule and comfort is also a key detail to consider. Tooth location also matters when it comes to the appearance and strength required. Your dentist may recommend a type of crown based on the bite pressure experienced in that area of the mouth. They may also have a preference for material depending on whether the tooth is very visible in your smile. 

If you’re in need of a dental crown for a damaged or decayed tooth, the best way to find answers is to talk to your dentist. A consultation can shed light on your options and help you achieve the best outcome.

Find the dental crown solution for your smile.

Both CEREC crowns and traditional dental crowns provide benefits in different situations, depending on the state of your smile and your lifestyle. The only way to know for sure which is right for you is to talk with your dentist. You can schedule a consultation with Staley Dental to find the best solution to restore your smile.