Dental restorations such as crowns or inlays often require two visits: one for the impression and lab work, then another for the final placement. With CEREC technology, a ceramic restoration can now be designed and placed in a single appointment at the clinic. It is an innovation that combines precision, speed and patient comfort.
Advanced digital technology
The CEREC system relies on CAD/CAM technology, that is, computer-aided design and manufacturing. This modern restoration method creates crowns, inlays or veneers perfectly fitted to the patient’s teeth, without an outside laboratory.
Besides offering remarkable precision, this technology eliminates the need for a temporary restoration and greatly reduces chair time.
The steps of the CEREC process
CEREC treatment usually involves four simple steps, all carried out at the clinic:
Preparing the tooth
The dentist starts by preparing the tooth to be restored, meaning part of its natural structure is carefully removed. This step removes damaged tissue and creates the space needed for the future restoration.
3D impression
The tooth, or the section of teeth to be restored, is scanned with an intraoral scanner. This technology takes a very precise 3D impression simply by sweeping the device inside the mouth. With this method, there are no more impression trays or paste!
Computer-aided design
The impressions are used to design the restoration virtually with specialized software. This step perfectly adjusts the shape, size and every technical aspect of the piece so it blends in with the rest of the teeth.
On-site manufacturing
A robotic milling unit then makes the restoration from a block of high-quality ceramic. The ceramic chosen, both strong and attractive, mimics the natural translucency of enamel.
Placement and final adjustment
The restoration is then tried in the mouth and adjusted by the dentist. This ensures both optimal function and an appearance almost identical to the permanent teeth. Finally, the restoration is bonded directly onto the prepared tooth.
How long do these steps take with CEREC technology?
In general, it takes about two hours to go through all the steps described in this article, from the initial preparation of the tooth to the placement of the freshly made restoration. All of it is done in a single appointment at the clinic, which saves travel and waiting time.
Indeed, one of the main advantages of CEREC for patients is that no outside laboratory is needed to make the crown or bridge. This eliminates the need for a temporary restoration, which is often less comfortable, and a second visit to the clinic to place the lab-made restoration.
The advantages of a CEREC restoration
The CEREC system offers several notable benefits:
- A single appointment, with no temporary restoration or waiting time.
- Pinpoint precision, thanks to digital design.
- Optimal comfort, with no impression paste.
- An attractive, durable restoration that resists wear.
Combining innovation and aesthetics, CEREC technology lets the dentists at Centre dentaire Ethier & Nadeau provide care that is fast, durable and highly personalized. If you need a restoration, ask us about this modern approach: your smile could be restored at your next visit!
