CEREC Same-Day Dental Crowns – Tulsa, OK

Beautiful Restorations in a Single Appointment

The traditional method for creating dental crowns necessitates that a dentist works with a trustworthy dental lab. Outsourcing crown creation can result in functional and strong restorations, but it has its drawbacks. Here at O’Brien Dental Wellness Center in Tulsa, we do things a little differently. We are proud to offer CEREC same-day dental crowns. We are often able to provide beautiful restorations in a single appointment! Get in touch with us today to learn more about advanced CEREC technology or to request an appointment.

Why Choose O’Brien Dental Wellness Center for CEREC Same-Day Dental Crowns?

  • Beautiful, Lifelike Materials
  • Efficient and Comfortable Treatment
  • Highly Accomplished Dentist

What Are CEREC Same-Day Dental Crowns?

Ceramic dental crown on reflective surface

A crown is a tooth-shaped cap that covers the entire portion of a tooth that protrudes beyond the gumline. In most cases, the purpose of a dental crown is to restore the strength and function of a damaged tooth. It may be used in cases of significant decay, broken teeth, or severely worn-down teeth. Crowns can also be used for aesthetic purposes.

CEREC is an acronym that stands for Chairside Economical Restoration of Aesthetic Ceramics. That sounds like quite a mouthful, but the basic concept is easy to understand. Essentially, CEREC technology allows us to design and fabricate your crown right here in our office in a matter of hours. It eliminates the need for us to rely on a local laboratory for crown creation.

The Process of Getting a CEREC Same-Day Dental Crown

Block of ceramic in CEREC milling unit

The CEREC crown process starts when we prepare the tooth, usually by removing a bit of its enamel. This ensures that the crown will fit well beneath its restoration. Then, we use a digital scanner to capture an impression of your teeth. We simply have to move a wand-like device around your mouth — no goopy materials or uncomfortable impression trays are necessary!

Dr. O’Brien then uses advanced software to design your crown. The design gets sent to our in-house ceramic milling unit, which carves your restoration out of a single block of top-quality dental ceramic. After we verify that the crown meets our rigorous quality standards, we permanently attach it to your tooth.

Benefits of CEREC Crowns vs. Traditional Crowns

Happy man pointing at his healthy teeth

CEREC crowns offer some remarkable advantages:

  • You will likely have to make just one trip to our dental office — CEREC technology is a big time-saver!
  • No temporary crown. Temporary crowns can be uncomfortable, and they tend to stick out like a sore thumb. CEREC technology allows you to skip this part of the traditional crown process.
  • Many patients dislike manual impressions. CEREC digital impressions are easy!
  • Beautiful results. CEREC crowns look almost indistinguishable from natural teeth.
  • The cost of CEREC crowns is often comparable to that of traditional restorations.
  • CEREC crowns are just as durable as their traditional counterparts. Your restoration may last for 10 – 15 years or longer if it receives proper care.

CEREC Same-Day Dental Crowns FAQs

Will I Have Dietary Restrictions with a Same-Day Crown?

One of the benefits of getting a same-day dental crown as opposed to a traditional one is that no temporary crowns need to be placed because you are receiving your permanent one almost immediately. This means that you don’t need to worry about restricting your diet to prevent your temporary crown from becoming dislodged. Your new dental crown will be very strong and durable, so it should easily be able to withstand day-to-day use. Just remember to take basic precautions, like wearing a nightguard if you grind your teeth and a sports mouthguard if you participate in contact sports.

What’s the Cost Difference Between Same-Day and Lab-Made Crowns?

Many patients worry that the cost of their CEREC crown will be higher because they are so convenient. Fortunately, this usually isn’t the case. CEREC crowns are similar in price to traditional crowns and are usually partially covered by dental insurance plans depending on the insurance provider. CEREC crowns may be slightly more costly, but they are worth it for many patients because there is no need to alter your schedule for a second appointment.

Who is Eligible to Receive a Same-Day Crown?

Same-day dental crowns can usually treat all of the same problems that traditional, lab-made dental crowns can. CEREC is often the recommended restoration if a patient has a cracked tooth, misshapen tooth, large filling, or other damage. They can also be used to address certain cosmetic concerns, like severe discoloration.

What is the Difference Between Traditional and Same-Day Crowns?

There are multiple things that make same-day dental crowns different from traditional ones. Here are the two main distinctions:

  • Same-day dental crowns are made by your dentist instead of in a laboratory. This means that your dentist will oversee the entire creation process, including taking your impression and placing the crown onto your tooth. This can result in better aesthetics and a more comfortable fit.
  • Same-day dental crowns are crafted and placed in a single appointment, so you don’t need to wear a temporary crown or switch up your diet to protect your damaged tooth. You also don’t have to worry about scheduling a second appointment in a few weeks.

What Does CEREC Stand For?

CEREC is an abbreviation for “Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics.” This refers to the process of custom-making a crown in the dental office within a single appointment instead of two separate visits.