CEREC® and Dental Bridge FAQs
Patients who have missing teeth have multiple options for replacing those teeth. CEREC® crowns and bridges are one of those options. A dental bridge is an artificial tooth or teeth supported by crowns placed on the natural teeth next to the bridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
These are some of the most frequently asked questions about CEREC® crowns and bridges.
What are the different types of bridges?
Dental bridges are available in four main types:
- Traditional bridges are supported by crowns on either side of the bridge.
- Cantilever bridges are supported by a crown on only one side of the bridge.
- Maryland bridges are affixed to a framework that is bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth.
- Implant-supported bridges are supported by dental implants.
What are CEREC® crowns and bridges?
CEREC® stands for "Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics." It refers to an alternative method for creating dental restorations, such as crowns and bridges. The restorations are manufactured on-site from dental quality ceramic that has been finished to match the color of the patient's natural teeth.
How does the process work?
The dentist begins by using 3D imaging software to create a digital impression of the teeth. This impression is then loaded into the CEREC® machine in the dentist's office. The machine uses the digital impression to create a customized restoration plan. This plan is then loaded into the milling unit, which then uses the plan to create the restoration. After the milling process is complete, the dentist makes any needed adjustments and places the restoration.
How long does the process take?
If the patient does not need other dental work before the crowns and bridge can be placed, the patient can usually receive CEREC® crowns and bridges in one visit. While traditional crowns and bridges are manufactured in off-site labs that may take one to two weeks and require at least two visits to place, CEREC® restorations are manufactured on-site in one to two hours.
What do the restorations look like?
CEREC® restorations are designed to match the look and feel of the natural teeth. The material is color-matched to the adjacent teeth, and the software used by the CEREC® machine customizes the restoration based on the fine details captured in the digital impression of the teeth. Additionally, the dentist makes adjustments to create a finished product that matches the patient's natural teeth as closely as possible.
How long do the restorations last?
CEREC® crowns and bridges can last for decades if properly cared for. Proper oral hygiene, regular dental checkups, and professional cleanings can extend the life of these restorations.
Conclusion
CEREC® crowns and bridges are an option for patients who need to replace one or more missing teeth and do not want to wait for traditional restorations to be manufactured and placed. A dental professional can answer any additional questions patients have about CEREC® crowns and bridges.Request an appointment here: https://www.mariettaroswelldentist.com or call Marietta Roswell Dental Care at (770) 993-2657 for an appointment in our Roswell office.Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: CEREC Dentist in Roswell, GA.