mayda Ferguson, DDS
If you have a badly damaged, decayed or weak tooth, then you’re in need of a new crown – the portion of the tooth that sits above your gumline. With the advances in dentistry, there is a new way to place dental crowns in Metairie – the CEREC method, but is it the best option for you? As you read on, your dentist explains how the process works and compares it to the traditional method to determine which is the most effective route to take.
The CEREC Method Explained
Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramic (CEREC) crowns have created a new avenue in the world of restorative dentistry. They provide a way for patients to have their teeth fully restored in just one visit instead of the traditional method that takes two to three weeks and two office visits to complete.
The CEREC method utilizes these two breakthrough forms of technology:
- Computer-Aided Design (CAD) – The CAD system allows the dentist to input bite impressions and X-Ray imaging data into the computer so that a custom, ceramic crown can be designed.
- Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) – The information is then sent to special in-office milling machine that fabricates the new crown while patients wait in the office.
In just one visit, patients are able to be fully restored and save money with the completely in-office procedure, but is the CEREC method for restoring teeth the best method to take?
How the Traditional Crown Method Works
The traditional method for restoring your teeth is to have any decay removed, the tooth shaped to make room for the new crown and then bite impressions taken that are sent to an in-network lab to fabricate the permanent fixture. Meanwhile, a temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth. As mentioned earlier, the traditional process can take two visits and up to three weeks to complete, but is it worth the wait?
The Advantages of Traditional Crowns
While the CEREC method saves you time, here are some of the advantages of the traditional method:
- Provides a durable fixture
- Creates a more natural-looking smile
- Provides a better fit for teeth fractured beneath the gumline
What’s Best for Me?
When you visit your dentist in Metairie, the professional will examine your current condition and provide the most durable and lasting restoration. While a faster procedure is always attractive, the main emphasis will be placed on what will deliver the highest quality restoration.
So treat your tooth like royalty by reaching out to schedule a visit to receive a dental crown today!
About the Author
Dr. Mayda Ferguson has been practicing dentistry for over 15 years and still remains driven to provide her patients with the absolute best in care. Thus, she earned a Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry and stays abreast of the latest advances in dental care by attending continuing education conferences annually. Dr. Ferguson practices at Second Line Family Dentistry, and she can be reached for more information through her website.
