Maybe you’ve heard of a CEREC machine but aren’t sure what it is and what it does. Perhaps the term CEREC machine is entirely new to you. This piece of dental technology is revolutionizing the way restorative and cosmetic dentistry operates. CEREC offers fantastic benefits for both dentists and patients. Here we explain what a CEREC is, how it works, its uses, and how to contact a dentist who offers CEREC near you!
What is a CEREC machine?
CEREC is an acronym for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics. The name might be a mouth full, but the concept is relatively simple. The CEREC machine is an in-house apparatus that dentists use to create custom ceramic restorative inlays, outlays, or crowns in mere minutes.
Dentists use advanced CAD and CAM technology to make precision 3D scans of the mouth, particularly the area needing restoration. With those scans, the CEREC machine creates a perfectly matched crown, inlay, or outlay from a ceramic block—right there in the dentist’s office during your visit. After the piece is manufactured, it is then color-matched to your teeth to create a natural look before being implanted.
What are the benefits of a CEREC machine?
Without a CEREC machine, the dentist has to send the scans of your teeth to a lab where a crown or inlay is made and then shipped back to the dentist’s office. This can take days or even weeks. In the meantime, the dentist will have to fit you with a temporary crown and have you come back for a follow-up appointment to install the final piece.
With CEREC, the crown is created in around 20 minutes in the dentist’s office. While the piece is being manufactured, the dentist will usually prep you for the final placement. This saves a lot of time for both you and your dentist–and doesn’t require a follow-up visit.
The CEREC machine is fast, but it’s also incredibly accurate. The CAD (computer-aided design) and CAM (computer-aided manufacturing) technology used by the CEREC machine creates perfectly matched restorative pieces to ensure your smile is as natural as ever. This is especially important for people with specific restorative needs, as the CEREC machine can manufacture pretty much anything, matching any smile.
Who offers CEREC near me?
This breakthrough technology is popping up in dentists’ offices more and more. McKenzie Family Dentistry can answer all your questions and get you fitted with your own custom-made CEREC crown, inlay, or outlay if you’re in the Hannibal, Missouri area. Get in touch with McKenzie Family Dentistry today to make your appointment and learn more about how the CEREC machine can help you!
If you’re interested in CEREC and have more questions, we can help. Reach out to us today!
