The CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) machine is a dental tool used to make customized ceramic dental restorations in one visit, speeding up a process that typically requires sending a mold of a patient’s teeth to a dental laboratory to get a part made, which can take up to a week and requires multiple trips to the dentist.
CEREC machines produce ceramic onlays, inlays and dental crowns with the use of 3D scans, allowing dentists to provide same-day restorations for patients who need crowns or dental implants.
CEREC machines use 3D-imaging software to make a detailed replication of your teeth. The process begins with your dentist taking X-rays and photographs of your mouth with the CEREC machine, which uses the information received to create a 3D model of your mouth. The Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software then highlights the parts of the model that need to be fixed.
Once the 3D model and the areas that need to be restored have been highlighted, the machine will create the restorative piece from a ceramic block. The machine-created piece will then be color-matched to your natural teeth.
The CEREC machine usually completes the process within 20 minutes. While you wait, your dentist will prep you for the restoration placement. When the CEREC machine finishes creating the required part, your dentist will complete the restoration, and when they are done, they will provide you with tips on how to take care of the restoration.
CEREC machines allow dentists to create needed restorative parts in their offices, reducing the amount of time it takes to complete dental procedures. If you have to undergo a dental procedure and want to get it done in one visit, look for a dentist who has a CEREC machine in their office.
I have been to Dr. Johnson to have my teeth cleaned and worked on twice this year. He is nothing but professional and very caring! I leave there each time knowing that I have received the best care for my teeth. Dr. Johnson and his staff made me feel comfortable from the moment I walked in the door until the time I left. I have recommended Dr. Johnson and his staff to many of my friends and I know that they are satisfied with his work as well!
~ Buttegirl17
Erik and staff are wonderful. They are professional, friendly, quick, and thorough. I have gone to Erik for years and recently convinced my boyfriend, who previously hated going to the dentist, to switch and he has now recommended him to his friends and coworkers as well. Erik is straight forward yet possesses great bed side manner.
~ Tess Frey