Pleasant Hill dentist offers CEREC same-day dental crowns
Dr. Cheng Zhu and his team at Pleasant Hill Dental work routinely with Pleasant Hill, California, area patients seeking the best in dentistry. For many, this also means using today’s outstanding technology to achieve better oral health and wellness. Patients who require restorations such as dental crowns are excited to learn that they can obtain same-day repairs thanks to the inclusion of the CEREC machine and software into our dental practice.
What is CEREC, and how is it used in dentistry?
CEREC is an acronym for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics, and it is a type of dental restoration technology used to create ceramic dental crowns. The process involves using a computer-aided design (CAD) program to create a 3D model of the desired dental restoration, which is then sent to a milling machine. The milling machine uses a diamond-tipped tool to carve the restoration out of a block of ceramic material. Once the restoration is complete, it is then bonded to the tooth using a special adhesive.
What are the advantages of utilizing CEREC technology?
CEREC technology has revolutionized how dentists can provide their patients with high-quality, esthetically pleasing dental restorations. In the past, patients who needed a dental crown would have to wait several weeks while the restoration was being created in a laboratory. With CEREC, the entire process can be completed in a single visit to the dentist’s office, which is much more convenient for patients. Additionally, because the restorations are made from ceramic material, they closely match the color and appearance of natural teeth. Because of these benefits, many patients love being able to restore their smiles in a single appointment.
Learn more about CEREC and other technologically advanced solutions available at Pleasant Hill Dental
If you are considering getting a dental crown, ask Dr. Cheng Zhu if CEREC technology is right for you. Call (925) 693-7077 to request an appointment at our facility and find out more about this and other technology used at Pleasant Hill Dental. We are conveniently located in the Pleasant Hill, CA area at 1894 Contra Costa Boulevard and accept new patients and families.
FAQs
What does CEREC stand for?
CEREC stands for “Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics.” This technology allows Dr. Zhu to create custom dental restorations within a single appointment. Using advanced CAD/CAM (computer-aided design and manufacturing) technology, CEREC eliminates the need for follow-up visits and temporary crowns. It’s a fast, efficient way to restore your smile with durable, high-quality ceramic materials.
What is CAD/CAM technology?
CAD/CAM comes from an acronym for Computer Aided Design/Computer Aided Manufacturing. This technology allows Dr. Zhu to design and create dental restorations, including veneers, bridges, and crowns. These restorations can be made with unmatched precision. The process involves digital scanning, 3D modeling, and milling the restoration right in the office, providing patients with highly accurate and custom-fit dental restorations.
How does CAD/CAM technology make same-day CEREC crowns possible?
CAD/CAM technology enables same-day CEREC crowns by allowing Dr. Cheng Zhu to take a digital scan of your tooth, design the crown using specialized software, and then mill it on-site from a block of ceramic material. This entire process is done chairside, eliminating the need for sending impressions to a dental lab and waiting weeks for a permanent crown. Your custom-made crown is completed in just one appointment.
Will physical impressions be required for a CEREC same-day crown?
No, physical impressions are not required for CEREC crowns. Instead of the traditional, often uncomfortable impression method, Dr. Cheng Zhu uses a digital scanner to capture a 3D image of your tooth. This digital model is more precise and less invasive than physical impressions, providing a faster and more comfortable experience while ensuring a custom-fit crown.
Will I receive my permanent crown with a single appointment with CEREC?
Yes, with CEREC technology, you can receive your permanent crown in just one appointment. After the digital scan and design process, Dr. Cheng Zhu will mill your custom crown right in the office. The entire procedure, from scanning to placing the crown, typically takes about two hours, allowing you to leave with a fully restored tooth the same day.
Will dental insurance cover the cost of CEREC same-day crowns?
Dental insurance coverage for CEREC crowns varies depending on your policy. Many plans cover a portion of the cost, just as they would with traditional crowns. Reviewing your insurance plan details or contacting your provider to confirm your coverage is best. Dr. Cheng Zhu’s office can assist in determining your benefits and exploring financing options to help manage the cost.
Will a CEREC same-day crown last as long as a traditional crown?
There is no disparity between the durability of a CEREC crown and a traditional crown. CEREC crowns are crafted using dental-grade ceramic materials, resulting in a solution that can withstand the forces of chewing and biting, providing a long-lasting restoration. With proper care, they can last many years. Dr. Cheng Zhu will ensure that your CEREC crown is precisely fitted and functions like a traditional crown.