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A CEREC tooth restoration isn't just convenient, it is also healthy. Many years ago, dentists had few options to repair decayed and damaged teeth other than amalgam, gold, and other metals. With CEREC, we use strong, tooth colored ceramic materials to restore your teeth to their natural strength, beauty, and function. These materials closely match the composition of natural tooth structure. This means when you eat hot food and then drink something cold, the restoration and tooth expand and contract at almost equal rates. So, your tooth does not crack, and you can go on enjoying your evening. Also, the materials are chemically bonded to your tooth, so we can save as much healthy tooth tissue as possible while providing you with a dental restoration that strengthens your tooth. Approximate time: 2 Hours from start to finish.
Exam and Preparation
Our team will examine your tooth and determine the appropriate treatment. If it is determined that your tooth will need a crown an appointmtnet will be made.
Optical Impression
During your appointmet an optical Impression (similar to picture or scan) of the prepared tooth will be completed. Instead of filling a tray with impression "goop" that you must bite into and hold in your mouth until it hardens, they the tooth with a non-toxic, tasteless powder. A camera is then used to take a digital picture of your tooth. This whole Optical Impression process only takes a minute or two.
No Temporaries
The 3-dimensional virtual model will appear on the computer screen and the dentist will design the restoration using the CEREC 3D computer program. Within a few minutes the restoration design data is sent to a separate milling machine in the office. A ceramic block that matches your tooth shade is placed in the milling machine. About 10 - 20 minutes later, your all-ceramic, tooth-colored restoration is finished and ready to bond in place. Finally, your new tooth is placed in your mouth to ensure proper fit and bite. Once a proper fit is ensured, the restoration is polished and bonded to the prepared tooth. Your tooth is restored with no "temporary" or return trip necessary. All of this is done in a single appointment!
