WHAT IS A DENTAL CROWN?

Often referred to as a “cap”, a crown is a permanent covering that protects the portion of your natural tooth above your gum line. Crowns are strong and dependable restorations that are permanently cemented onto your own natural teeth. By strengthening and reconstruction the top portion of your tooth with a crown, Dr. Goodwin is able to preserve the roots of the teeth as well as the surrounding bone and the gum tissue.

WHEN IS A CROWN RECOMMENDED?

Since crowns are designed to provide strength and protection for your natural teeth, they are typically recommended when your own teeth have been fractured or broken. A crown will also be recommended when there are signs that the natural tooth is too weak to withstand forceful biting or chewing. This includes teeth that have large fillings, excessively worn teeth, and teeth that have been treated with a Root Canal procedure. Following the placement of a dental implant, a dental crown is the finishing touch that makes an artificial tooth look attractive and lifelike.

CEREC TECHNOLOGY

We are one of the few offices to offer the highest tech restoration available today known as CEREC technology. This technology allows our office to provide our patients with same visit crowns. It is a unique and sophisticated computerized program that electronically images the tooth needed to be restored.

The advantages to having a CEREC crown are:

1. Full porcelain crowns that look like a natural tooth made using computer technology for a perfect fit!
2. Crowns that are created and cemented permanently in place in just ONE appointment. No need for a second visit, no second shots to numb the area, and no additional time off of work or school for a second appointment!
3. No need for messy impressions- all impressions are made digitally.
4. No temporary, plastic crowns while a lab makes the crown. You leave with the permanent crown.
5. No waiting 2-3 weeks for the lab crown to arrive. You leave with your beautiful, permanent crown!

HOW IS A CEREC CROWN CREATED?

With the CEREC system, preparing for a crown has never been simpler and more efficient. First, local anesthetics will be used to numb the tooth and the surrounding gum tissue, and then the top of the tooth will be reshaped and slightly reduced in size.

Next, a three-dimensional digital image of your prepared tooth can be obtained as you relax in the dental chair, and within minutes, a chairside crown-milling unit can fabricate a beautiful porcelain crown that can be permanently seated during a single dental visit.

For patients who prefer fewer dental visits, patients who have busy schedules, patients whose gag reflex is sensitive to traditional dental impression material, the Same Day CEREC technology is an easy choice.

If you have questions regarding CEREC Same Visit Crowns, please ask one of our friendly staff about this procedure and technology.