What is CEREC?

With the revolutionary technology of the CEREC machine, dentists are now able to complete dental crowns in just one appointment. CEREC is an acronym for Chair-side Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics or CEramic REConstruction. This machine uses 3D scans to create ceramic inlays, onlays and crowns to create a perfect representation of your teeth.

How does CEREC work?

CEREC technology relies on 3D imaging software to create a detailed representation of your teeth. After diagnostic imaging is taken, Computer-Aided Design (or CAD) software then refines the model to highlight the areas that need restoration.

After scanning, the milling process beings. The CEREC will sculpt the designed restoration out of a ceramic block (one that matches your natural tooth shade identically). At the Smile Institute, our machine can craft the restoration itself within the space of 10-20 minutes. During this time, Dr. Sutter will prepare your teeth for the restoration placement. And in the final step, the restoration is  permanently sealed to the tooth. This is the most delicate part of the procedure. If placed perfectly, your crown will have no chance of accidental removal.

This is all done within a single appointment (usually no longer than an hour and a half). After your procedure, Dr. Sutter will show you how best to care for your new restoration so that it can last well into the future.

Benefits of a same-day restoration

These restorations use the most up to date technology and materials, and therefore the most reliable. Our veneers, inlays, onlays, and crowns last for many years through wear and chewing. Dr. Sutter will design a restoration that beautifully matches your smile, camouflaging right in with your real teeth.

To schedule a same-day restoration or to find our more about our crowns and veneers, please feel free to stop by or give our office a call. You can also check out our smile gallery for photos and testimonials or our work.