If you are experiencing severe trauma or a root canal that has left one or more of your teeth weakened by damage or decay, give your smile some extra strength with a dental crown. A dental crown strengthens and restores your smile with a durable and natural-looking restoration. The dental crown process is simple, especially if you opt for a CEREC restoration. Here’s what a dental crown placement from our team at Center Valley Dental looks like from start to finish.
Introducing CEREC Crowns
We’re proud to offer CEREC crowns in our Center Valley office. CEREC (or Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramic) crowns are made using digital technology, and they only take one visit. This significantly decreases the length of the dental crown process, taking it from three to four weeks to a few hours!
The benefits of CEREC Crowns are endless:
- Single visit convenience
- Enhanced precision using 3D technology
- No temporaries
- No uncomfortable impression trays
- Color-matched ceramic for a natural-looking smile
- Clinically proven & long-lasting
Consultation
The first step in the dental crown process is a consultation with our dental team. During this time, Dr. Matthew Lang and his team perform X-rays, examine your smile, and determine whether a dental crown is necessary. If he recommends a dental crown, Dr. Lang will explain the procedure, discuss your options, and answer any questions. We typically recommend one visit for your consultation, then request that you come back for the crown impression, modeling, and placement.
Tooth Preparation
First, your dentist prepares your tooth by removing any decay or damage. This may involve filling cavities or reshaping the tooth to create a stable base for the crown. Meanwhile, we’ll also remove a layer of enamel to allow the crown to adhere firmly to the tooth.
Digital Impression & Modeling
Once your tooth is prepared, your dentist then takes an impression. No more gooey, uncomfortable impression trays! Rather, CEREC uses an intraoral scan to take photos of your teeth. These photos are sent to a computer, which creates a 3D model of your restoration.
For many patients, this part of the dental crown process is the most fun! They can watch as the 3D model of their crown is prepared and request adjustments to the shape, size, and color. Following the digital impression, the computer sends the image to a milling unit for carving. The crown is carved from ceramic, offering a natural appearance and durability.
Crown Placement
After the crown is milled to match the specifications of the digital model, your dentist will place the permanent crown on your tooth. During this time, they will check the fit and make any necessary adjustments before the crown is cemented into place.
Aftercare
After your crown is placed, we will provide you with aftercare instructions to ensure the longevity of your new restoration. You should brush and floss regularly and avoid chewing on hard or sticky food that could break, damage, or stain your new crown.
The Dental Crown Process Made Easy
Here at Center Valley Dental, we put your care and comfort above all else. Discover the difference dental crowns can make by requesting an appointment with our team of experts.
We also offer additional cosmetic dentistry services like dental implants, veneers, and tooth whitening. General dentistry is also available for all members of the family. With advanced technology and a caring team of experts, we have the tools to turn the smile of your dreams into a reality. Request an appointment to get started.