Missing work or spending weeks with temporary crowns no longer fits into your busy life. CEREC technology allows you to walk in with a damaged tooth and leave the same day with a permanent, custom-fitted crown that matches your natural smile.
At Charlotte Dental Arts, we use advanced CEREC technology to create high-quality dental restorations in a single visit. Dr. Edwin Porter has completed over 6,000 same-day restoration cases and serves as Visiting Faculty at CEREC Doctors, training dentists across the country on this transformative approach to dental care.
What Makes CEREC Crowns Different
Traditional crown procedures require multiple appointments spread over weeks. First, your dentist prepares the tooth and takes impressions using messy putty molds. You wear a temporary crown while a dental lab fabricates your permanent restoration. Finally, you return for a second appointment to have the crown fitted and adjusted.
CEREC changes this process completely. The technology uses computer-aided design and manufacturing to create your crown while you wait. A small camera captures detailed 3D images of your tooth, which appear instantly on a chairside monitor. The design software allows your dentist to craft a restoration that fits precisely with your bite and blends seamlessly with surrounding teeth. A milling machine then carves your crown from a solid block of dental ceramic in about 15 minutes.
The Benefits of Same-Day Dental Crowns
Getting your crown in one visit saves time and reduces the hassle of dental care. You only need to take off work once, and you never deal with the sensitivity or appearance issues that come with temporary crowns.
The CEREC process also provides better comfort. Digital scans replace traditional impression materials, which many patients find uncomfortable. You see exactly what your crown will look like before it’s made, allowing you to request adjustments if needed.
Perhaps most importantly, CEREC crowns deliver outstanding results. The ceramic material closely mimics the translucency and strength of natural tooth enamel. Your restoration will match the color of your surrounding teeth so well that most people won’t notice you have a crown at all.
When You Might Need a Dental Crown
Crowns protect teeth that have been weakened by decay, cracks, or large fillings. If you’ve had a root canal, you’ll need a crown to protect the treated tooth from breaking. Crowns also restore teeth that are badly worn or misshapen.
Sometimes patients choose crowns as part of cosmetic improvements. A crown can correct the size, shape, or color of a tooth that doesn’t match the rest of your smile. They’re also used to anchor dental bridges or cover dental implants.
What to Expect During Your CEREC Appointment
Your appointment typically takes about two hours from start to finish. After numbing the area, Dr. Porter removes any decay and shapes your tooth to accommodate the crown. The digital scanner captures images from multiple angles, building a complete 3D model of the prepared tooth and neighboring teeth.
Using specialized software, Dr. Porter designs your crown to match your bite and appearance perfectly. You’ll see the design on screen and can provide input before the milling begins. The machine carves your crown from a ceramic block that matches your tooth color.
Once milling finishes, Dr. Porter polishes and stains the crown to match the subtle variations in your natural teeth. He then bonds it permanently to your prepared tooth using strong dental adhesives. Before you leave, he checks your bite and makes any necessary adjustments to confirm everything feels comfortable.
Caring for Your CEREC Crown
Your new crown functions just like your natural teeth, and it needs the same care. Brush twice daily and floss once daily to keep the gum tissue around your crown healthy. Research from the American Dental Association confirms these habits prevent decay around restorations.
Avoid using your crowned tooth to open packages or bite hard objects like ice. While CEREC ceramic is strong, excessive force can damage it just like natural enamel. Regular dental checkups allow Dr. Porter to monitor your crown and address any issues before they become problems.
Most patients find their crowns last 10 to 15 years with proper care. Some factors that affect longevity include:
- Oral hygiene habits: Consistent brushing and flossing protect the tooth underneath your crown.
- Bite forces: Grinding or clenching may require a nightguard to protect your restoration.
- Diet choices: Limiting sugary foods and acidic drinks helps prevent decay at the crown margins.
- Regular checkups: Professional cleanings and exams catch small issues early.
If you notice any sensitivity, pain, or changes in how your crown feels, contact us right away. Early intervention often prevents more extensive treatment later.
Experience Advanced Dental Care at Charlotte Dental Arts
At Charlotte Dental Arts, we’ve built our practice around cutting-edge technology that improves your experience and results. Dr. Edwin Porter brings over 20 years of experience in cosmetic and restorative dentistry, holding fellowships from the Academy of General Dentistry and a Diplomat in the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. Charlotte Magazine has recognized him as a Top Dentist in Charlotte for over 20 years, as voted by his peers.
We understand that dental visits can feel stressful, which is why we offer amenities like noise-canceling headphones, iPads, and blankets to help you relax. Our fully digital approach means more accurate results with less discomfort. Whether you need restorative work, cosmetic improvements, or family dental care, we provide comprehensive treatment in a comfortable setting. We also work with out-of-network patients and offer flexible financing options, including CareCredit and Cherry Financing. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and discover how same-day crowns can transform your smile.
