CEREC technology from Kingston-upon-Thames dentist saves tooth
In the past having a dental crown fitted was a lengthy process. First of all, the dentist would have to take several moulds of the patients’ teeth and accompanying x-rays. They would then use these moulds to design a crown as accurately as possible before spending days, perhaps even weeks manufacturing them in the laboratory. Then came a trial and error fitting process, which often involved several adjustments. This was a lengthy and expensive process.
However, with the advancements in dental technology over the last twenty years it is now possible to design, manufacture and install a crown in one sitting. This has been made possible by the introduction of CEREC technology. CEREC stands for CERamic REconstruction, and is a state-of-the-art new tool that utilises the very latest in 3D imaging and digital x-rays. The dentist is now able to build up an exact 3D image on the computer which he can use to design the crown. This image can then be manufactured to microscopic levels of accuracy by the computer-aided manufacturing device. This involves milling the crown from a single piece of porcelain, which can take as little as an astonishing six minutes.
This new technology has reduced waiting times and treatment times for patients and heralds the future of dentistry. CEREC technology means that crowns can now look more realistic and natural. Because they are so accurately sized, there is a reduced need for any alteration once in place. The porcelain used can even be matched and stained to most closely resemble the patient’s existing teeth.
If you have a cracked or chipped tooth from an injury, or even a fragile tooth caused by dental problems such as decay or gum disease, a CEREC manufactured crown could help to save your tooth. Because of the levels of accuracy CEREC crowns are particularly useful for cosmetic replacements due to worn or discoloured teeth. Ask a Kingston-upon-Thames dentist if CEREC quality crowns could help bring the smile back to your face.