Why choose CEREC® crowns?

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Dr. Herbert uses CEREC® to treat almost anyone needing a crown. Exceptions include patients who have a prior history of breaking ceramic devices and those with a deep bite. CEREC® devices are proven to last for over 5 years, but recent research indicates that most CEREC®-created restorations last for more than 10 years and beyond.

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Advantages of CEREC® restorations:

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• No temporary restorations.

• High-quality ceramic products.

• Minimal invasiveness.

• Less injections and discomfort.

• Fewer dental visits.

• Cost effectiveness.

• More natural tooth is saved.

• Long lasting restorations.

• Biocompatible solutions.

• No messy impressions.

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What comprises a CEREC® system?

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The CEREC® System is sometimes called a CAD-CAM system. Dr. Herbert  has completed advanced training courses using this system. CAD-CAM means Computer Assisted Design and Computer Assisted Milling. The CEREC® system has three major components:

Acquisition device: This device is home to a high-quality camera and a medical grade computer. The function of this unit is to photograph the prepared tooth. Three-dimensional images are created of the tooth on the screen, which the dentist uses to design the perfect ceramic restoration.

Three-dimensional CAD software: This software allows J & D Dental's specially trained dentists to examine the tooth from every angle. It is the closest possible thing to holding the tooth in the hands and rotating it.

Milling device at J&D Dental: This unit actually manufactures the custom restoration from the specifications entered into the computer. A ceramic block that best resembles the existing tooth color is chosen and placed into the unit. This unit is right inside J & D Dental, so within minutes, the milling device produces the restoration the dentist designed.

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What can I expect during a CEREC® restoration procedure?

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The first step in the procedure is to prepare the tooth. Your J & D Dental dentist removes all tooth decay and prepares your tooth for the crown.  Next, a highly detailed picture is taken by the licensed dental assistant at J & D Dental.  Images are formulated with the CEREC® camera. CEREC® optical imaging utilizes an infrared wavelength.

The image is transposed onto the computer screen. It is here that your J & D Dental dentist is able to view the tooth from every angle and design the final restoration. When the design is complete, it is transmitted to the milling unit. Your dentist chooses a block of ceramic that matches the color of the teeth. This ensures that the restoration will be almost invisible.

Within 15 minutes, the full crown is complete right in our Downtown Minneapolis dental office!  The restoration is made of compressed, rather than laboratory-layered, porcelain.  This enhances strength and durability.

Before affixing the restoration to the tooth,  your dentist will ensure it fits perfectly. It is then polished and bonded to the tooth with dental cement. The procedure is now complete and all without the need for a second visit!  

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If you have questions or concerns about CEREC®, please ask us during your next visit.