Are CEREC Crowns Stronger than Traditional Crowns?
Durability is everything when it comes to dental restorations, especially crowns. You want a solution that lasts, keeps your teeth healthy, and feels like the real thing. That’s where dental crowns come in. Whether you’ve damaged a tooth or had a root canal, crowns offer protection and restore your smile. But which one should you go for, a modern CEREC crown or a traditional crown?
What Are CEREC Crowns?
CEREC crowns, also known as Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics, are made using advanced technology that lets your dentist in San Diego create and settle the crown in just one visit. This innovation means you can walk into your appointment and leave with a brand-new crown the same day.
Here’s how it works:
- Your Cerec dentist uses digital imaging to scan your tooth.
- The digital model is then utilized to design a custom crown right there in the office.
- A special milling machine shapes the crown from a solid block of ceramic.
- Finally, your dentist places the crown, and you’re done!
The whole process happens within a few hours, saving you from multiple trips and temporary crowns. This convenience is a major benefit, especially if you need same-day crowns near you.
What Are Traditional Crowns?
Traditional crowns have been used for decades and remain a popular choice. They require a more involved process compared to CEREC crowns.
- How Traditional Crowns Are Made: First, the dentist prepares your tooth and takes an impression, either with a mold or a digital scanner. This impression is sent to a lab where your crown is crafted. This part of the process can take a few weeks, which means you’ll need to wear a temporary crown to safeguard your tooth in the meantime.
- Materials Used in Traditional Crowns: Traditional crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including metal, porcelain fused to metal, or all-ceramic. Each material has its own benefits:
- Metal crowns are highly durable and quite resistant to wear.
- Porcelain crowns are more natural-looking but can chip over time.
- Due to their strength and natural-looking appearance, all-ceramic crowns are a popular option.
- The Downside of Traditional Crowns: Multiple appointments are often needed, and you’ll need to deal with a temporary crown, which may not be as comfortable as a permanent one.
Durability and Strength Comparison
Now, let’s dive into the real question: Which crown is stronger?
- Materials Matter: Both CEREC and traditional crowns are made from strong materials. However, the ceramic used in CEREC crowns is typically very durable. It resists wear and doesn’t cause excessive wear on nearby teeth. That said, traditional crowns made of metal are often stronger and better for back teeth that endure heavy chewing forces.
- Patient Experiences: Studies and real-life experiences suggest that CEREC crowns perform well in the long term. While metal crowns have a slight edge in terms of strength, the dentist ensures a well-fitted ceramic crown that can last many years with proper care.
- Clinical Data: Research indicates that CEREC crowns have a success rate comparable to traditional crowns. Many patients report being satisfied with their durability and longevity, especially when they maintain good oral hygiene.
Other Factors to Consider
Strength and durability aren’t the only factors to think about when deciding between CEREC and traditional crowns.
- Aesthetics: Both types of crowns can be made to look natural, but ceramic crowns, like same-day crowns near you, tend to provide a better aesthetic match. They mimic the look of natural teeth more closely than metal or porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns.
- Comfort: CEREC crowns often fit better because of the digital scanning process. A crown with a precise fit reduces the risk of discomfort, sensitivity, and issues like food trapping between teeth.
- Convenience: Time is a huge factor for most people. CEREC crowns allow you to avoid the hassle of multiple visits and wearing a temporary crown. If you value convenience, CEREC crowns are hard to beat.
- Maintenance and Longevity: Both types of crowns require regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene. With proper care, both CEREC and traditional crowns can last for many years. However, CEREC crowns may require a bit more attention in high-pressure areas like molars due to the material’s properties.
Conclusion
In the debate between CEREC crowns and traditional crowns, both options have their advantages. CEREC crowns are a great choice if you’re looking for convenience, aesthetics, and a precise fit. On the other hand, traditional crowns may offer more strength in some situations, especially if they’re made from metal or a combination of materials.
Ready for a Stronger Smile with Same-Day Crowns Near You
At Bliss Dental Arts, we’re here to help. Whether you need a traditional crown or want to explore options with same-day crown dentists, we’ve got you covered. Our team can guide you through the alternatives and ensure you get the treatment that best suits your needs. Fix your consultation today and start your journey toward a healthier, stronger smile.