CEREC®

The introduction of Chairside Economical Restorations of Esthetic Ceramic (CEREC®) has dramatically transformed dental procedures. Previously, for restorative treatments like crowns, onlays, inlays, or dental veneers, multiple appointments and significant waiting time were the norm. With CEREC®, these ceramic restorations can now be created within minutes right in the dental office, allowing for many treatments to be completed in a single visit.

CEREC® is an assembly of computer-aided design (CAD) tools and a milling machine that fabricates customized ceramic restorative devices on-demand. This capability enables the dentist to place the restoration immediately, a significant advantage for patients who are anxious or aiming to reduce treatment costs.

Who can benefit from CEREC®?

Almost anyone needing a ceramic restoration can benefit from CEREC®, excluding those who have a history of damaging ceramic devices and those with a deep bite. While CEREC® devices are guaranteed to last over 5 years, recent studies suggest that most CEREC®-crafted restorations endure for more than 10 years.

Other advantages associated with CEREC® include:

• No need for temporary restorations.
• Production of high-quality ceramic products.
• Minimally invasive procedures.
• Reduced injections and discomfort.
• Fewer dental appointments.
• Cost-effective treatment.
• Preservation of more natural tooth structure.
• Long-lasting restorations.
• Biocompatible solutions.
• What constitutes the CEREC® system?

Often referred to as a CAD-CAM system, standing for Computer Assisted Design and Computer Assisted Milling, the CEREC® system consists of three primary components:

Acquisition unit: This component, comprising a high-quality camera and a medical-grade computer, photographs the prepared tooth. The device generates 3D images of the tooth, which the dentist uses to design the optimal ceramic restoration.

3D CAD software: This software enables the dentist to scrutinize the tooth from all perspectives. It simulates the experience of holding the tooth and rotating it for examination.

Milling device: This component manufactures the bespoke restoration based on the specifications inputted into the computer. A ceramic block closely resembling the existing tooth color is chosen and positioned in the unit. Within minutes, the milling device creates the restoration as designed by the dentist. The process eliminates the need for unpleasant impressions or time-consuming lab visits.

What steps are involved in a CEREC® restoration?

The initial step of the procedure involves tooth preparation. The dentist removes all decay and creates a divergent occlusal axial wall to widen the opening of the tooth. Following this, an impression is made using a layer of titanium dust, which allows the camera to capture a highly detailed image of the tooth. These images are created with the CEREC® camera, which employs infrared wavelength for optical imaging.

The image is transferred onto the computer screen, where the dentist can view the tooth from every angle and design the final restoration. Once the design is finalized, it’s sent to the milling unit. The dentist selects a ceramic block that matches the color of the teeth, ensuring the restoration will blend seamlessly.

Within 15 minutes, the full crown, onlay, overlay, or veneer is ready. The restoration, made from compressed porcelain rather than lab-layered porcelain, boasts increased strength and durability.

Before bonding the restoration to the tooth, the dentist dry-fits it to confirm perfect alignment. It’s then polished and bonded to the tooth with dental cement. The procedure is completed without the need for a second visit. The quality of the results matches that of lab-produced restorations, but with significant time and cost savings.

For any questions or concerns about CEREC®, please consult your dentist.