When it comes to restoring a damaged or decayed tooth, dental crowns are often the go-to solution. These tooth-shaped caps cover the entire visible portion of a tooth, providing strength, protection, and an improved appearance. However, not all crowns are created equal. Two of the most popular options available today are CEREC crowns and traditional crowns, each offering its own unique set of benefits and considerations. Here we would like to thanks to Haddad Dental, a leading dental office in Pennsylvania run by Dr. Kamal Haddad, for providing valuable insights into the world of dental crowns. Their expertise has enabled us to compare and contrast CEREC crowns and traditional crowns, helping patients make an informed decision about which option is best suited for their needs.

In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the differences between CEREC crowns and traditional crowns, exploring their respective advantages and disadvantages to help you determine which option is the best fit for your specific situation.

What are CEREC Crowns?

CEREC stands for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics, and it refers to a state-of-the-art technology that allows dentists to design, manufacture, and place high-quality ceramic crowns in a single appointment. This advanced system utilizes computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) to create custom crowns from a solid block of ceramic material.

The CEREC process begins with your dentist taking precise digital impressions of your tooth using an intraoral camera. These impressions are then used to create a 3D model of your tooth on a computer, which your dentist can use to design your custom crown. Once the design is finalized, the data is sent to an in-office milling machine, which fabricates your crown from a block of ceramic material. After a few finishing touches, your new CEREC crown is ready to be permanently cemented onto your prepared tooth.

What are Traditional Crowns?

Traditional crowns, also known as lab-fabricated crowns, are the more conventional approach to dental restorations. This process typically involves two or more appointments and the use of temporary crowns.

During the first appointment, your dentist will prepare your tooth by removing a small amount of enamel to create space for the crown. They will then take physical impressions of your teeth using a putty-like material. These impressions are sent to a dental laboratory, where skilled technicians will use them to create a model of your teeth and fabricate your permanent crown.

While your permanent crown is being made, you'll be fitted with a temporary crown to protect your prepared tooth. Once the permanent crown is ready, typically a week or two later, you'll return to your dentist's office to have the temporary crown removed and the permanent crown cemented in place.

CEREC Crowns vs. Traditional Crowns: Pros and Cons

Both CEREC crowns and traditional crowns have their advantages and disadvantages, which you'll want to consider carefully when deciding which option is right for you.

Advantages of CEREC Crowns:

1. Convenience: The ability to have a permanent crown placed in a single visit is one of the most significant advantages of CEREC crowns, saving you time and eliminating the need for multiple appointments and temporary crowns.
2. Precision: CEREC crowns are designed using precise digital impressions, ensuring an accurate fit and proper bite alignment.
3. Natural Appearance: The high-quality ceramic materials used in CEREC crowns can be matched to the exact shade and translucency of your natural teeth, resulting in a seamless, natural-looking restoration.
4. Preservation of Tooth Structure: CEREC crowns often require less tooth preparation, preserving more of your natural tooth structure.
5. Reduced Discomfort: Without the need for temporary crowns, you can avoid potential discomfort or sensitivity associated with them.

Disadvantages of CEREC Crowns:

1. Higher Upfront Cost: While the long-term costs may be comparable, the upfront cost of CEREC crowns is typically higher than traditional crowns due to the advanced technology involved.
2. Chairside Time: The entire CEREC process, from design to fabrication, is completed in your dentist's chair, which may result in a longer appointment time.
3. Limited Material Options: CEREC crowns are typically made from ceramic materials, which may not be suitable for all situations or patient preferences.

Advantages of Traditional Crowns:

1. Lower Upfront Cost: Traditional crowns often have a lower upfront cost compared to CEREC crowns, making them a more budget-friendly option for some patients.
2. Wider Material Options: Traditional crowns can be fabricated from a variety of materials, including metals, porcelain-fused-to-metal, and zirconia, providing more options to suit different needs and preferences.
3. Off-Site Fabrication: The permanent crown is fabricated in a dental laboratory by skilled technicians, allowing for precise craftsmanship.

Disadvantages of Traditional Crowns:

1. Multiple Appointments: The traditional crown process typically requires at least two appointments, one for tooth preparation and another for permanent crown placement.
2. Temporary Crowns: The need for a temporary crown while waiting for the permanent restoration can lead to potential discomfort, sensitivity, or even dislodgement.
3. Impression Inaccuracies: Physical impressions, while still accurate, may not be as precise as the digital impressions used for CEREC crowns, potentially leading to fit issues.

Ultimately, the decision between CEREC crowns and traditional crowns will depend on your individual circumstances, preferences, and your dentist's recommendations. Consider factors such as your schedule, budget, desired materials, and any specific oral health concerns you may have. Your dentist at Haddad Dental will be able to evaluate your situation and guide you towards the option that best suits your needs, ensuring a successful and long-lasting restoration.