CEREC vs Traditional Crowns: Speed, Durability, and Cost
When your tooth is damaged or decayed, a dental crown is often the best solution to restore its function and appearance. For decades, the process of getting a crown was standard and required patience, but advancements in dental technology have introduced new options that can save you significant time. Choosing between modern CEREC® crowns and traditional crowns is a decision many of our patients face, and understanding the differences can help you feel confident in your treatment plan.
We want you to feel informed and empowered when it comes to your oral health. While both methods result in a restored tooth, the journey to get there looks quite different depending on which path you choose. In this guide, we will break down the key differences in speed, durability, and cost to help you determine which option fits your lifestyle and dental needs best.
The Speed Advantage: One Visit vs. Two
The most significant difference you will notice immediately is the timeline. With traditional crowns, the process typically requires at least two visits spread over a couple of weeks. During the first appointment, your dentist prepares the tooth and takes a physical impression, which is sent to an off-site dental laboratory. You are then fitted with a temporary crown while you wait for the permanent one to be crafted. This means you have to drive to the office twice, get numbed twice, and deal with a temporary restoration that requires extra care.
In contrast, CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) technology allows us to design, create, and place your custom crown in a single appointment. We use a digital scanner to take a precise 3D image of your tooth—no messy impression goop required—and then mill the restoration right here in our office while you wait. You walk in with a damaged tooth and walk out the same day with a permanent, high-quality zirconia crown, eliminating the need for a temporary fix or a second trip to the dentist.
Comparing Durability and Aesthetics
You might wonder if the speed of a same-day crown compromises its strength. The good news is that CEREC crowns in Greer are milled from a solid block of high-quality zirconia, which is incredibly durable and designed to withstand normal biting and chewing forces. These zirconia blocks come in a wide variety of shades, allowing us to match the color of your natural teeth precisely. Because there is no metal core, as seen in some traditional porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns, you won't see a dark line near your gum line over time.
However, traditional crowns still have their place, especially in specific clinical situations. Materials used in traditional labs, such as gold or zirconia, are exceptionally strong and may be recommended for back molars that endure heavy grinding or for patients with a particularly strong bite. While CEREC technology is highly advanced and suitable for most restorations, we will always evaluate your specific bite and oral health to ensure you receive the most long-lasting solution available.
Understanding the Cost Investment
When looking at the price tag, the cost of CEREC crowns and traditional crowns is often comparable. While the high-tech equipment required for same-day dentistry is a significant investment for a dental practice, it eliminates the external laboratory fees associated with traditional crowns. This balance often keeps the out-of-pocket cost for the patient relatively similar for both procedures.
It is also important to consider the value of your own time when comparing costs. A traditional crown requires you to take time out of your schedule for two separate appointments and potentially more if the temporary crown breaks or falls off. With CEREC, you save money on gas and save your valuable paid time off or personal time by completing the entire procedure in just one visit. Most dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost for both types of crowns equally, provided the restoration is medically necessary.
Making the Right Choice for Your Smile
Ultimately, the choice between CEREC and traditional crowns depends on your unique dental needs and your schedule. If you prioritize convenience and want to avoid the hassle of temporary crowns and multiple appointments, same-day dentistry is a fantastic option that does not sacrifice quality. We are here to guide you through this decision, ensuring that whatever method you choose results in a healthy, beautiful smile that you can be proud of.
Frequently Asked Questions About CEREC Crowns
How long does a CEREC appointment take?
A typical appointment for a CEREC crown takes about two hours from start to finish. This includes the preparation of your tooth, the digital scanning process, the design and milling of your crown, and the final bonding of the restoration to your tooth. During the milling process, which usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes, you can relax in our comfortable office environment.
Do CEREC crowns look natural?
Yes, they look very natural. Because they are crafted from high-grade zirconia that mimics the translucency of natural tooth enamel, they blend in seamlessly with your surrounding teeth. We can stain and glaze the crown right in the office to ensure the color matches your smile perfectly, making it virtually indistinguishable from your natural teeth.
At Greer Dental Studio, we are dedicated to providing compassionate, high-tech care that respects your time and prioritizes your comfort. We invite you to schedule an appointment with our team to discuss whether same-day crowns are the right solution for restoring your smile.