How Long Do CEREC Crowns Last?

You may be surprised to hear that your dentist is using the newest dental technology available. What does technology have to do with dentistry anyway? To answer your question: a lot actually! One of the newest dental techniques in the industry is CEREC, or Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics. CEREC at Cherrywood Dental Care is used to custom design and manufacture prosthetic crowns all within one visit to the dentist’s office. If your dentist has recently discussed with you the option of getting a CEREC crown, you may want to know more information about what exactly is involved in making the crown and how long this type of crown will last.

What Exactly is CEREC?

Ok so CEREC is a new technology, but how does it work? CEREC uses computer-assisted design (CAD) and computer-assisted manufacturing (CAM) to design and custom-make dental crowns. The first step is to custom design the crown. Your dentist will use an optical scanner to take 3D pictures of your entire mouth, including all of the teeth and the jaw. Next, software will be used to turn these 3D pictures into a 3D digital model of your mouth. Using this model your dentist is able to design your crown. Once the design is complete, your dentist will use the specialized software to 3D print or mill the crown from a solid block of ceramic or porcelain. The end result is a custom-designed and custom-made crown that is perfectly suited to fit you.

How Long Do CEREC Crowns Last?

Unlike conventional crowns, the process of digitally modeling your mouth allows your dentist to capture the small intricacies of your mouth that may not be captured by a traditional mold used in the conventional crown process. The CEREC process results in a custom crown that fits perfectly. A better fit will go a long way in helping your crown last as long as possible. Other factors that impact the durability of the crown besides fit include the quality of the ceramic or porcelain used and the health of your mouth. If you want to know more about the quality of the material used by your dentist, you should have a discussion with them about their CEREC process.

Traditionally, a porcelain crown will typically last between 10-15 years with proper care. That is not to say crowns won’t last longer, some crowns have lasted even longer. With the newest technology and best materials being used today it is hard to predict how long a new CEREC crown will last. The best way to ensure the longer life of your crown is to:

  • Practice good daily hygiene at home with regular brushing and flossing
  • Avoid smoking and drinking excessive caffeine which can stain or discolor the crown
  • Avoid clenching and grinding your teeth at night. If you have a history of grinding your teeth have a talk with your dentist about ways to protect your crown. They can help you with fitting a mouthguard to protect your crown and all of your teeth.

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