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1-Hour Crowns by CEREC | Salinas, CA

by TLC Dentistry · published February 26, 2014 · Last updated February 26, 2014 · 3 min read Dental health is a major source of stress for countless individuals, and those who have a chipped tooth or other problem often experience tremendous anxiety. In addition, our teeth can drastically change how we look. Fortunately, there are solutions to all dental problems. One of the most powerful tools of dentistry is crowns, and modern technology has made today’s crowns far better than those used in the past. Here are a few facts about crowns and why patients might need them. What is a Crown? A dental crown is a covering for a tooth. They can be made from a variety of materials; each have certain advantages. Crowns are designed with durability in mind, and some modern crowns can last for decades. Crowns can restore smiles, and they allow patients to avoid the high costs of implants in certain situations. Do I Need a Crown? If your tooth has a large chip or is cracked, you may need a crown. While dental bonding and fillings can go a long way toward restoring a tooth, they can only be used for fairly small areas. A dental crown can replace part of the tooth or, more commonly, the entire visible portion of the tooth. Some patients also need crowns if their teeth are not strong enough because of tooth decay or other problems. Do Crowns Look Like Real Teeth? In the past, patients would often have crowns made of metal. While these crowns functioned well, they did not mimic the look of natural teeth. Today, porcelain crowns and porcelain/metal hybrid crowns can make a crowned tooth look completely natural, and some patients use them on teeth that are still relatively healthy because of the improved appearance they provide. Do I Need a Root Canal? Not all patients who need crowns need a root canal. Root canals are meant for alleviating the damage caused by injured tooth nerves, and the nerve is removed in the process. In many cases, the nerve is in good shape but the tooth itself needs to be crowned. Those who receive a root canal, however, often need a crown after the procedure has been completed. How do Most Patients Receive Crowns? There are faster crowning methods available today, but most patients are still treated in the classic manner. First, the tooth is ground down to give the dentist a flat surface to work on. Sometimes, a core buildup is needed to provide the necessary structural support. The patient is typically given a temporary crown. An impression of the tooth is made, and patients will return in a week or two to have their permanent crown bonded. Is There a Faster Way? In 1985, the first CEREC crown was placed. The CEREC technique using 3-D digital imaging to make an impressions of the surface to be crowned, and a crowd is fabricated based on the information these scans provide. Patient will have their permanent crowns placed when they leave the office. This procedure is becoming more popular, but most dentists don’t have the necessary equipment. TLC Dentistry offer one-hours crowns that use CEREC technology. How do I Maintain a Crown? Unlike teeth, crowns cannot decay. However, it is possible to develop tooth decay underneath the crown, which may cause it to fall off. In general, it’s best to treat crowned teeth like regular teeth. Flossing is also important to ensure that the gums stay healthy. People often worry when they’re faced with dental problems, but modern dentistry has advanced significantly. Patients dealing with broken, chipped or painful teeth should rest assured that modern crown technology can have them feeling better and looking great in as little as one hour. About TLC Dentistry in Salinas Since 1962 TLC Dentistry has been offering the most up-to-date dental care in a friendly, courteous manner, and strives to provide a peaceful and relaxing environment. Schedule a visit today: (831) 757-1038