Dental Crowns 101: The Basics
As a primary aspect of the dental profession for many years, dental crowns, (or fillings) are perhaps one of the most well-known and commonly performed procedures within dentistry today. As you’re probably aware, a conventional dental crown (to put it simply) is a method of restoration in which a tooth-shaped cap is placed over a damaged or decayed tooth, thus effectively covering the entire the tooth that is exposed above the gum line. The purpose of this crown is not only to improve the patient’s overall oral health by restoring and strengthening the tooth, but to provide the patient with a smile that is aesthetically pleasing as well.
While conventional dental crowns remain a popular, and sought-after solution within the dental community, the process of receiving a crown has not always been the most desirable experience. When receiving a standard dental crown, the process requires at least two separate appointments, in which the patient would likely have to take time off work or adjust their schedules to accommodate. Additionally, in waiting to receive a conventional crown, the patient would be given a temporary crown to wear between appointments. While certainly necessary in preventing future damage and providing a quick fix, the cumbersome temporary crown has been unpopular with patients in the past, as they have been known to break easily, or sometimes to even fall out. Tedious as the process may be, the end product will typically be that of a sturdy and dependable crown to serve as a long-term replacement.
Although the standard crown will certainly prove its worth over time, it’s important to remember that the average lifespan of a regular dental crown is approximately ten years; however, this may certainly vary depending on both lifestyle habits and the routine practice of proper oral hygiene. That said, the conventional crown despite its flaws, is a tried and true solution that has helped patients for many years.
The CEREC Crown: A Whole New Ballgame!
Alright… you might want to pay attention, because we’ve got quite the doozy for you! Now imagine if you can, a picture-perfect crown that can be both created and fitted in your mouth with just one single appointment!
Sounds too good to be true doesn’t it?
However, what you may be surprised to find is a mythical, and seemingly flawless same day dental crown that is in fact no myth at all. As the “Chairside Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics” or “CEREC Crown” is both very real and currently very in demand among both dentists and patients alike. Originally developed back in 1980, the “Chairside Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics” or “CEREC Crown” technology has taken modern dentistry by storm and has proven itself as a powerful new tool within the field.
The CEREC Crown is a specially customized same day dental crown, created specifically for you through digital imaging as opposed to simply using a goopy dental impression of your mouth to accurately pinpoint the precise dimensions of your new crown, and thereby create a near perfect replica of your natural tooth.
Related Article: CEREC Crown: Technology giving you a crown in One Day
This cutting-edge digital imaging allows Dr. Kimes to scan the inside of your mouth to accurately pinpoint the precise dimensions of your new crown, and thereby create a near perfect replica of your natural tooth. Once placed over a rotten or broken natural tooth, this masterpiece of modern dentistry provides a permanent replacement that is virtually unnoticeable and can even be customized to match the exact shade of your teeth! Although considerably stronger, presenting an exponentially improved appearance, many patients consider the convenient process in receiving the CEREC to be among their favorite improvements over the conventional crown. Unlike the afore mentioned conventional crown, the CEREC same day dental crown requires only a single appointment in which you may receive a fully complete, permanent replacement, thus sparing you the hassle of making multiple appointments and managing a temporary crown.
CEREC Crown Candidacy Requirements
“So how can I get a CEREC crown?”
While such a straightforward question may typically warrant a simple answer, the truth of the matter (as it so often is) is a bit more complicated than that. For most patients needing a crown, (approximately 90%) yes, the cutting edge cerec crown is absolutely a fantastic solution, and the most efficient option available.
However, perhaps the only true exception to this would be in patients who may suffer from bruxism. Bruxism is a chronic condition, in which a patient may excessively (and sometimes unconsciously) clench their jaw, clenching or grinding their teeth. Although enormously popular and highly sought after, the only real issue presented by the cerec crown is the fact that due to its excess strength, it may present a bit more of a hazard when grinding against other teeth than that of its predecessor. Fortunately, if this is something you find yourself concerned with or suffer from chronic clenching, there are several types of mouth guards available for both daytime and night-time use that can be created by our team here at Overland Park Dentistry and made available upon request!
Related Article: Don’t Stress… Get a Mouth Guard for Teeth Grinding
Come See Us!
Although its not often that you see an old dog learn new tricks, in the case of the dental crown this is certainly true, as thanks to the crisp new cerec technology, the common dental crown has now received a major upgrade! The cerec crown has in many ways revolutionized the field of professional dentistry by ushering in a new era of 21st century technology and presenting patients with a level of quality that previously could not be provided.
Related Article: Receive a Same Day CEREC Crown at Overland Park Dentistry
But don’t take our word for it, if you are in need of a crown or filling, come see us at Overland Park Dentistry and find out for yourself!
Local dentist, Dr. Charles R. Kimes, DDS, and his expert team at Overland Park Dentistry look forward to having the opportunity to care for you and your family with any preventative, restorative or cosmetic needs you or your family may have. To schedule your dental appointment with your Overland Park Dentist, contact us at our south Overland Park office at (913) 647-8700 or our north Overland Park office at (913) 341-2380.
