CEREC

Fixing a broken, worn-down, or decayed tooth is essential for long-term oral health and day-to-day comfort. Traditionally, crown treatment required multiple appointments, temporary crowns, and waiting for lab fabrication. While effective, this approach can be inconvenient for patients with busy schedules.

Thanks to advancements in digital dentistry, CEREC same-day crowns now offer a faster, more efficient, and highly precise alternative—backed by real clinical science and modern restorative materials.

Why the Old Crown Process Isn’t the Best

Traditional crowns involve tooth preparation, putty-based impressions, and placement of a temporary crown. The impression is then sent to an external lab for fabrication, requiring the patient to return 1–2 weeks later to receive the final crown.

While reliable, this method has drawbacks:

  • Temporary crowns can dislodge or irritate the gums
  • Prepared teeth may become sensitive or vulnerable to bacteria
  • Impression inaccuracies can require chairside adjustments
  • The process feels slow and inconvenient for many patients

What Same-Day Crowns Do to the Rules

CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) allows dentists to complete digital scanning, design, milling, and placement in a single visit.

  • No traditional impressions—only high-resolution digital scans
  • CAD software is used to design a precise 3D crown model
  • The crown is milled from strong ceramic (lithium disilicate or zirconia)
  • Final bonding and polishing are completed the same day

The entire appointment typically lasts under two hours.

A Closer Look at the Materials Behind the Technology

CEREC crowns use advanced ceramics backed by decades of research:

  • Lithium disilicate — over 350 MPa fracture strength, highly translucent, natural aesthetics
  • Zirconia — extremely strong and ideal for molars under heavy chewing forces

Both options bond well to tooth structure and are biocompatible, making them safe and long-lasting.

Clinical Benefits Beyond Convenience

Same-day crowns offer more than speed. They also provide several clinical advantages:

  • No temporary crowns—eliminates irritation, leakage, and margin issues
  • Digital impressions provide superior accuracy
  • Fewer adjustments needed at delivery
  • Immediate placement supports gum tissue stability and healing

Who Benefits Most from Same-Day Crowns?

Most patients needing a single crown can benefit from same-day restoration, especially if the tooth is moderately damaged and the gums are healthy.

However, traditional lab-made crowns may still be preferred for:

  • Complex cosmetic cases
  • Full-mouth rehabilitations
  • Patients with active periodontal disease

Each case is evaluated individually to determine the best approach.

How to Keep Your Restoration in Good Shape For a Long Time

Caring for a same-day crown is the same as caring for a traditional one:

  • Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
  • Floss or use interdental cleaners daily
  • Schedule routine dental checkups
  • Use a nightguard if you clench or grind
  • Avoid biting hard materials like ice or popcorn kernels

With proper care, CEREC crowns can last 10–15 years or more.

The Future of Crown Therapy Is Here

CEREC technology represents a major shift toward patient-centered restorative care—prioritizing precision, durability, efficiency, and comfort. While not ideal for every case, same-day crowns are an excellent option for many patients seeking a fast, reliable, and aesthetic solution.

Understanding the process, materials, and expectations can help you make the right decision between a traditional crown and a same-day restoration. When done properly, CEREC crowns restore function, strength, and beauty in a single visit.

Call Us

To learn more or schedule a consultation, call (808) 707-7445.