CEREC® Technology, which stands for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramic, is a state-of-the-art method of creating natural tooth restorations. We’ve been using CEREC® technology since 2006 to make crowns, bridges, inlays, onlays, and veneers out of ceramic material to restore the natural beauty and function of your teeth.
What does CEREC Technology mean for you?
One of the biggest advantages of CEREC® is its convenience. Typically, we can make crowns or bridges in our office on the same day as your visit. Using CEREC® technology is also more comfortable for many patients as it eliminates the need for biting on the traditional impression trays which can be messy and cause many people to gag. Plus, no more plastic temporary crowns that fall off!
How does it work?
The CEREC® system uses CAD/CAM (Computer Aided Design/Computer Aided Manufacturing) technology. Essentially, CEREC® is a camera, computer, and manufacturer all rolled into one amazing unit. The technology uses the latest 3D imaging software to create an accurate and customized representation of your teeth for a beautifully restored smile.
The mobile unit, complete with a camera and a medical grade computer, is easily used and maneuvered while you’re sitting in the chair. Dr. Fernandez and Dr. Cox use the unit to take a digital picture of your prepared tooth and this picture is then converted into a 3D virtual model of your prepared tooth using CEREC® 3D software. And you can watch all of this on the screen. This design is sent via a wireless radio signal to the CEREC® Milling Unit where CAM technology creates an incredibly precise and customized restoration while you wait.
After the restoration is complete, the final step is bonding it to the surface of the damaged tooth. The result is a beautiful, strong, natural restoration, made and delivered to you in one visit. In fact, the whole process takes about 1½ - 2 hours. It’s convenient, comfortable, and easy.
Schedule an Appointment Today
If you’re interested in learning more about the digital technology we use to make your dental care as easy and effective as possible, make an appointment with us today!