When a tooth becomes damaged or weakened, even simple things like chewing can become uncomfortable. If your dentist recommends a crown, you may have to choose between CEREC and traditional options. While both can restore and protect a tooth, the treatment process, materials, and number of visits can differ significantly.
For patients considering a crown in Chandler, AZ, knowing these differences can help you ask better questions and make an informed decision. In this blog, we will explore the CEREC crown vs. traditional crown, including treatment time, appearance, durability, cost, and the factors to consider when choosing between them.
What is a CEREC Crown?
A CEREC crown is a dental crown designed and made using computer-aided technology in the dental office. Instead of sending impressions to an outside laboratory, the dentist uses digital scanning and specialized equipment to design and mill the crown from a ceramic block.
One of the main benefits is convenience. In suitable cases, a CEREC crown can be designed and placed during the same appointment, reducing the need for multiple visits. However, same day treatment is not right for every patient.
If you are considering a dental crown in Chandler, your dentist will evaluate your tooth, bite, and overall oral health before recommending the most suitable option.
What is a Traditional Crown?
A traditional crown is a custom restoration made in a dental laboratory. After preparing the tooth, the dentist takes an impression or digital scan, which is used to create the permanent crown.
This process usually requires two appointments. During the first visit, the tooth is prepared, and a temporary crown may be placed. At the second visit, the permanent crown is checked for fit, shape, color, and bite before being secured in place.
Traditional crowns are available in materials such as porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, and metal. The right choice depends on the tooth’s location, appearance, bite pressure, and overall condition.
CEREC Crown vs. Traditional Crown: Key Differences
The difference between a CEREC crown and a traditional crown is not simply about which one is newer. Both approaches have been developed to restore teeth effectively, but the treatment process can be quite different.
Here are some of the main factors to consider.
1. Number of Dental Visits
One of the most noticeable differences is the number of appointments involved.
- A CEREC crown may be completed in a single appointment when the case is suitable and the necessary technology is available. This can be convenient for people who have busy schedules or have difficulty making multiple dental visits.
- Traditional crowns generally require more than one appointment because the permanent restoration is manufactured in a dental laboratory.
However, fewer appointments do not necessarily mean that one option is better for every patient. The condition of the tooth and the complexity of the restoration remain important factors.
2. How the Crown is Made
- CEREC crowns are designed digitally and milled using specialized equipment. The process can allow the dentist to move from scanning to design and fabrication within the dental office.
- Traditional crowns are usually created by a dental laboratory based on impressions or digital scans provided by the dentist.
The laboratory process can allow technicians to work extensively on the details of the restoration, depending on the material and type of crown being created.
3. Material Choices
- CEREC restorations are commonly associated with ceramic materials. These materials can provide a tooth colored appearance that blends well with natural teeth.
- Traditional crowns offer a broader range of material choices. Depending on the specific restoration, a dentist may recommend ceramic, porcelain, zirconia, metal, or another suitable material.
The best material is not determined by appearance alone. Your dentist may also consider the location of the tooth, chewing pressure, available tooth structure, and your individual bite.
4. Appearance
Both CEREC and traditional crowns can be designed to look natural.
- CEREC crown can be designed with tooth colored ceramic to blend naturally with your surrounding teeth.
- Traditional crowns can also provide a natural appearance, with material and shade options selected based on the tooth and your smile.
The final appearance depends on several factors, including the material, shade selection, tooth preparation, design, and the skill involved in placing the restoration.
5. Convenience
- CEREC crown may be completed in fewer visits and can reduce the time spent wearing a temporary crown.
- A traditional crown usually requires more than one appointment because the permanent crown is made in a dental laboratory.
For patients with busy work, school, or family schedules, the number of appointments can be an important consideration. Your dentist can explain the expected timeline and help you choose an option that fits both your dental needs and schedule.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
There is no single lifespan that applies to every dental crown.
With good oral hygiene and regular dental care, crowns can last for many years. However, their longevity can be affected by several factors, including:
- Oral hygiene habits
- The material used for the crown.
- The amount of natural teeth remaining.
- The location of the tooth.
- Bite forces.
- Teeth grinding or clenching.
- Diet and daily habits.
- Regular dental examinations.
A crown does not make the tooth underneath immune to decay or gum problems. The natural tooth and surrounding gums still need proper care.
Patients who receive dental crowns in Chandler should continue brushing twice a day, cleaning between the teeth, and attending regular dental appointments.
Suggested Read: Dental Crowns Explained: What to Expect
CEREC Crown vs. Traditional Crown: Which One Takes Longer?
Treatment time can vary considerably.
- A CEREC restoration may be completed in one visit when the case is straightforward, and the dentist has the necessary equipment and workflow. This can be particularly useful when a patient wants to minimize the time between tooth preparation and final restoration.
- Traditional crown treatment generally takes longer because the permanent crown must be produced by a dental laboratory. The patient may need to return for a second appointment after the laboratory completes the restoration.
However, the actual treatment time depends on the tooth, the extent of damage, the type of crown, and whether additional dental treatment is needed.
How Much Does a CEREC or Traditional Crown Cost?
Cost is an important part of choosing a crown, but it should not be the only factor. The total price can vary depending on several factors, including:
- Type and material of the crown
- Location and condition of the tooth
- Preparation or additional treatment needed
- Laboratory costs
- Dental office fees
- Insurance coverage
A CEREC crown may have a different cost structure because it is designed and made in the dental office, while a traditional crown may include dental laboratory costs.
Rather than comparing prices alone, ask your dentist what is included in the total cost and why a particular crown type is recommended for your tooth. This can help you understand both the treatment and the value you are receiving.
CEREC Crown vs. Traditional Crown: Which One to Choose?
There is no single crown option that works best for every patient. The right choice depends on the condition of the tooth, your bite, appearance goals, treatment timeline, and the type of restoration your dentist recommends. Looking at when each option may be suitable can help you better understand the decision.
1. When Might a Traditional Crown Be a Better Fit?
A traditional crown may be considered when the tooth needs a specific material or a more customized laboratory restoration. It can be useful when:
- A particular crown material is recommended.
- The restoration requires detailed laboratory work.
- The tooth has complex structural needs.
- Same-day treatment is not a priority.
2. When Might a CEREC Crown Be Considered?
A CEREC crown may be suitable for patients who value a more streamlined treatment process. Depending on the case, it may offer:
- Fewer dental appointments.
- Digital scanning and crown design.
- In-office crown fabrication.
- Less time wearing a temporary crown.
- A more convenient treatment schedule.
For older adults who may need restorative care for multiple teeth, options such as dental crowns and bridges for seniors can also be discussed with a dentist based on their individual oral health and treatment needs.ย
The final decision should be based on the condition of your tooth and your dentist’s recommendation, rather than convenience alone.
How to Care for Your Crown After Treatment
Regardless of which type of crown you receive, proper care can help protect both the restoration and the natural tooth underneath.
1. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and clean between your teeth every day. Pay attention to the area around the crown because plaque can still collect along the gumline.
2. Avoid Using Your Teeth as Tools
Do not use your teeth to open packages, cut materials, or bite objects that are not food. These habits can put unnecessary pressure on a crown.
3. Be Careful With Very Hard Foods
Hard foods can place significant force on dental restorations. If your dentist gives you specific dietary instructions, follow them during the healing and adjustment period.
4. Address Teeth Grinding
If you grind or clench your teeth, tell your dentist. Excessive pressure can affect crowns and natural teeth. Your dentist may recommend an appropriate protective solution.
5. Keep Regular Dental Appointments
Regular dental visits allow your dentist to monitor the crown, gums, bite, and surrounding teeth. Problems are often easier to address when they are identified early.
Interesting read: What Happens If You Donโt Get a Crown After a Root Canal?
CEREC and Traditional Crown Care at Novelly Family Dentistry
Choosing between a CEREC crown and a traditional crown starts with understanding what your tooth actually needs. At Novelly Family Dentistry, we help patients in Chandler understand their crown options based on their oral health, treatment needs, and preferences.
During your visit, you can:
- Discuss your options: Learn how CEREC and traditional crowns differ in treatment and materials.
- Evaluate the tooth: Have the affected tooth checked to determine the appropriate restoration.
- Compare treatment timelines: Understand how many visits may be needed for each option.
- Ask about crown care: Learn how to protect your restoration and maintain good oral health.
At our dental office in Chandler, we can help you get clear answers and understand which crown option may suit your needs.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between a CEREC crown and a traditional crown can make it easier to discuss your options with your dentist. CEREC crowns may offer a quicker and more convenient process, while traditional crowns provide different material and laboratory options.
The right choice depends on your tooth, bite, oral health, appearance goals, and treatment needs. If you are unsure which option is suitable, talk with your dentist about the expected treatment time, material, care, and long term results before making a decision.
FAQs
1. Is a CEREC crown better than a traditional crown?
Neither option is automatically better for every patient. The appropriate choice depends on the condition of the tooth, the material required, your bite, appearance goals, and treatment needs.
2. Can a CEREC crown be completed in one day?
In suitable cases, a CEREC crown may be designed, manufactured, and placed during one appointment. The actual treatment time depends on the tooth and the dental office’s workflow.
3. Do CEREC crowns look natural?
Yes. CEREC crowns are commonly made from tooth colored ceramic materials and can be designed to blend with the surrounding teeth.
4. How long can a dental crown last?
A dental crown can last for many years with proper care, but its lifespan varies depending on factors such as oral hygiene, material, bite forces, tooth location, and daily habits.
5. How do I know which crown is right for me?
Your dentist can evaluate the tooth and consider factors such as its location, remaining tooth structure, bite, appearance, and your treatment preferences before recommending a crown.
