Cutting-edge technology has revolutionized the way we perform restorative dental procedures. The cause of this tech upgrade? The use of the Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics (CEREC) machine. This adaptive wonder has become a game changer by offering dentists and patients ways to enhance the efficiency, precision, and overall restorative experience. Here, we’ll dive into CEREC technology and how you can use it to improve patient outcomes and patient satisfaction.
Understanding CEREC Technology
CEREC technology enables the design, creation, and placement of dental restorations in a single visit. Although originally developed just for crowns, CEREC use now spans a variety of restorative procedures.
Types of CEREC Restorations
CEREC Crowns
Although CEREC crowns are used in the same way as traditional crowns (when there is significant decay), that’s where the similarities end.
Traditional crowns:
- Can be made of different materials, including ceramic, gold, or metal alloys.
- Require 2-3 office visits to complete while the patient must wear a temporary crown.
- Are created out-of-office in a dental lab.
Crowns created by CEREC technology:
- Typically made using only ceramic or composite resin.
- 3D imaging, design, and milling are all completed in the office.
- Takes a single office visit.
CEREC Veneers
In many cases, porcelain veneers are the right call for fixing a broken or chipped tooth, as well as for aesthetic purposes. Like with crowns created in-house, CEREC veneers can also be completed in a single office visit, saving time for both you and your patients while eliminating the need for temporary veneers. Like traditional veneers, the patient must schedule regular dental cleanings and practice good oral hygiene after the veneers have been successfully bonded.
CEREC Bridges
The solution for having one or more missing teeth is the bridge. And yes (you guessed it), CEREC bridges can be done in one office visit. As a dentist, you’ll need to know how to design your patient’s bridge and crown(s) using the CEREC software. If done correctly, the bridge can last for decades.
Benefits of CEREC in Restorative Procedures
Digital Impressions & 3D Imaging
CEREC uses digital scanners to capture 3D impressions of a patient’s teeth and oral structures. These images are highly detailed and capture multiple angles for precise design.
A huge benefit of 3D imaging is that taking impressions using molds and putty is no longer needed. 3D scanning is painless and only takes a few minutes. This makes patients more comfortable and relaxed and gives you more time back in your day — a win-win situation.
Treatment Planning & Customized Designs
CEREC software provides simulation and planning tools that help dentists visualize the treatment outcomes before the actual procedure. Within the software, you can make adjustments and refinements to the treatment plan based on the patient's specific needs and expectations. Don’t forget to turn on the biocopy catalog to overlay it on your design for better outcomes.
In the case of a crown, the software allows for precise customization of the crown's shape, size, and color to match the patient's natural teeth. This virtual design serves as a blueprint for the actual restoration. Patients will get precisely what they see, which means happier smiles throughout the process (and less stress on your end).
So Amazing We Have To Repeat: Same Day Restorative Procedures
With this restorative dentistry technology, you can give patients the smile they want without the wait. In most cases, any restorative piece can be designed and created in a few hours. The plus-plus side? Faster does not mean less quality. In fact, studies have shown that CEREC restorative pieces are on par with their lab-made equivalents when it comes to durability.
Unlock the Potential of CEREC Restoration Procedures
Offering CEREC restorative procedures can set your dental practice apart by providing convenient, efficient, and high-quality solutions. However, you have to master the machine first. Restorative dental CE courses that include CEREC software training can help you elevate your dentistry one 3D image at a time. For more information on restorative programs, check out our Fellowship in Restorative Dentistry.
