Cerec Same Day Crowns
Cerec is a sophisticated, computer-based treatment system for the 21st century. Treatment for crowns, fillings and veneers can now normally be completed in only one visit, with no impressions or temporary fillings needed.
Are you considering dental crowns or bridges to replace missing teeth? If you think you might need a crown or a bridge, the experienced dentists at Eagle River Dental in Eagle River, Alaska can help. Crowns and bridges restore the smiles of many men and women, and they can do the same for you. In fact, according to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, 15 million people in the United States have crowns to replace missing teeth. To learn more, call or book an appointment online today.
Crowns and Bridges Q & A
What are dental crowns and bridges?
A dental crown is also called a cap. It's placed on top of a damaged tooth. It's shaped to look like the natural tooth and can improve its appearance and strength. The crown goes over the original tooth and is bonded into place, so the tooth is completely covered, from the gum line up.
Bridges are sets of prosthetic teeth that bridge the gap in your smile created by missing teeth. They can be custom-made to match the shade of your natural teeth. In some cases, they’re bonded to surrounding teeth that act as stabilizing anchors. They can also be attached to dental implants for added support.
Do I need a crown or a bridge?
The experienced dentists at Eagle River Dental have a variety of reasons for suggesting a crown or a bridge. A crown can cover a dental implant or stained or worn tooth. On the other hand, a bridge is exclusively used to replace missing teeth.
In addition to making a natural tooth look better, a crown can provide support to a tooth. Crowns can strengthen teeth that are at risk of breaking or that have weakened as a result of large fillings.
Whether you need a crown for cosmetic reasons or to strengthen weakened or broken teeth, a dental crown can protect teeth. When considering getting a bridge, your dentist can help you weight factors, such as cost and lifestyle preferences.
What are the different types of crowns?
There are a variety of dental crown materials to consider. Crowns can be made from:
- Stainless steel
- Gold or another alloy
- Porcelain fused to metal
- Resin
- Ceramic
The material used for your crown will depend on your situation and the crown’s purpose. For instance, stainless steel is often used to make temporary crowns. Prefabricated stainless steel crowns are a frequent choice for children who have decayed baby teeth and need crowns.
How long does it take to get a dental crown or bridge?
A dental-crown procedure typically involves two visits to the dentist, at a minimum. In some cases, though, the Eagle River Dental team can provide a same-day crown using a CEREC® high-tech dental device. This cutting-edge digital technology allows the team to produce quality crowns chairside, making the procedure that much more convenient for you.
For bridges, the procedures do involve at least two visits.
What's involved with a dental crown or bridge procedure?
Even though the Eagle River Dental team has the capability to deliver same-day crowns with its CEREC device, ideally, they prefer three appointments to ensure the utmost in quality and results. For a more perfect outcome, crowns produced in a dental lab are preferred. The first visit is a detailed consultation during which impressions and radiographs are taken of your teeth.
At your second visit, your dentist prepares your teeth, sometimes filing them down to make sufficient room for your crown or bridge, and fits you with a temporary crown before you come back in.
During your final visit, your dentist places your new appliance, ensuring a snug fit and comfort. Crowns are bonded onto the affected tooth with a special adhesive. Bridges are generally bonded to neighboring teeth that support the prosthetic teeth.
For same-day crowns, those impressions are used to create your crown on the spot in the office.
Would you like to learn more about dental crowns or bridges? Think you might need a crown replaced? Contact the experienced professionals at Eagle River Dental or make an appointment online.
