What are CEREC Crowns?
First, let's briefly discuss what CEREC crowns are. CEREC stands for "Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics." This technology allows your Spartanburg dentist to design, create, and place a ceramic crown in a single appointment, eliminating the need for temporary crowns and multiple visits. CEREC crowns are made from high-quality ceramic materials that closely mimic the appearance and function of natural teeth.
How Long Will My CEREC Crown Last?
The good news is that with proper care and maintenance, CEREC crowns can have an impressive lifespan. On average, CEREC crowns can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years, and in some cases, even longer. This is comparable to the longevity of traditional lab-made ceramic crowns.
Factors That Play a Role In Longevity
However, it's important to note that the lifespan of a CEREC crown can vary depending on several factors. One of the most significant factors is oral hygiene. Like your natural teeth, CEREC crowns require regular brushing and flossing to prevent the buildup of plaque and bacteria. Neglecting your oral hygiene can lead to decay around the crown margins, which can compromise its integrity and shorten its lifespan.
Another factor that can impact the longevity of a CEREC crown is the location of the tooth. Crowns placed on teeth that bear a significant amount of biting force, such as molars, may experience more wear and tear over time compared to crowns on front teeth. This is because back teeth are subjected to greater pressure during chewing and grinding.
Your diet and habits can also play a role in the durability of your CEREC crown. Biting on hard objects, such as ice or hard candies, can put excessive stress on the crown and cause it to chip or fracture. Similarly, grinding or clenching your teeth (bruxism) can wear down the ceramic material over time, reducing the crown's lifespan. If you have a habit of grinding your teeth, your dentist may recommend wearing a night guard to protect your crown and natural teeth.
Check-Ups Are Key
Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are also crucial for maintaining the longevity of your CEREC crown. During these visits, your dentist can assess the condition of your crown and address any issues before they worsen. They can also remove any plaque or tartar buildup around the crown margins, helping to prevent decay and ensure a snug fit.
Replacing Your CEREC Crown: What to Expect
In some cases, even with excellent oral hygiene and regular dental care, a CEREC crown may need to be replaced sooner than expected. This can happen if the underlying tooth structure sustains further damage or decay, or if the crown itself becomes damaged beyond repair. However, these situations are relatively rare, and most CEREC crowns provide many years of reliable function and aesthetic appeal.
It's worth mentioning that while CEREC crowns are durable and long-lasting, they are not indestructible. Like any dental restoration, they may eventually need to be replaced. However, with proper care and attention, you can maximize the lifespan of your CEREC crown and enjoy a healthy, beautiful smile for many years to come.
The Benefits of CEREC Crowns
While the longevity of CEREC crowns is a significant factor to consider, it's also important to discuss the numerous advantages they offer over traditional lab-made crowns. One of the most notable benefits of CEREC crowns is the convenience they provide.
With traditional crowns, the process typically involves multiple appointments spread over several weeks. During the first visit, the tooth is prepared, an impression is taken, and a temporary crown is placed. The impression is then sent to a dental lab, where the final crown is fabricated. At a second appointment, the temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is cemented in place.
In contrast, CEREC crowns streamline this process into a single visit. Using advanced computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology, your dentist can design, create, and place your crown in just one appointment. This eliminates the need for temporary crowns and the inconvenience of multiple visits, saving you valuable time and effort.
The Precision and Accuracy of CEREC
Another advantage of CEREC crowns is their precision and accuracy. The CAD/CAM technology used in the CEREC system allows for highly detailed digital impressions of your tooth. These digital impressions are then used to design a crown that precisely fits your tooth's unique shape and contours. This level of accuracy helps ensure a comfortable and secure fit, reducing the risk of future complications such as decay or crown loosening.
Expect Beautiful Results
CEREC crowns also offer excellent aesthetic results. The ceramic materials used in CEREC crowns closely resemble the appearance of natural tooth enamel. They can be customized to match the color, translucency, and texture of your surrounding teeth, creating a seamless and natural-looking restoration. With CEREC crowns, you can enjoy a beautiful, confident smile without anyone knowing you have a dental restoration.
Made From Quality Materials
Additionally, CEREC crowns are biocompatible and metal-free. This makes them an ideal option for patients with metal allergies or sensitivities. The absence of metal also eliminates the risk of dark or gray lines along the gum line, which can sometimes occur with traditional metal-based crowns.
Why Choose Skylyn Dental Associates for Your CEREC Crowns
At Skylyn Dental Associates, Dr. Paul Gibas and his team are committed to providing high-quality dental care using the latest technology. Our practice is known for our expertise in CEREC crowns, ensuring a comfortable, efficient, and effective treatment process. We strive to meet the unique needs of each patient, offering personalized care in a welcoming environment.
Schedule Your CEREC Crown Consultation Today in Spartanburg
If you're considering CEREC crowns in Spartanburg, we invite you to reach out to Skylyn Dental Associates. Our knowledgeable team is ready to answer any questions you may have and guide you through the process. Don't let a damaged tooth compromise your smile or your confidence. Call us today at (864) 573-9255 to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards a healthier, more beautiful smile.