Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene After Getting A CEREC Crown

Summary:

Do you often wake up to an excruciating pain from your damaged tooth? 

If yes, maybe it’s time you get a dental crown. 

Dentists in Shallotte, NC, suggest crowns to patients with a severely damaged tooth. However, there might be instances where a damaged tooth can be saved. Professionals generally suggest CEREC crowns to such patients to prevent their teeth from further deterioration.

As the name suggests, CEREC crowns are a popular alternative to metal or resin caps. They are made of strong ceramic to give you a flawless smile. However, their unique application makes it challenging for most patients to keep up with the appliance’s maintenance. 

So, in this article, we take a closer look at some maintenance tips around CEREC with topics like:

• CEREC Crowns x Modern Dental Prosthetics 
• What Can You Expect While Obtaining CEREC Crowns?
• Aftercare Tips For Your CEREC Crown

Continue reading as we learn more about the aftercare tips for getting CEREC crowns in the following sections. 

Tooth damage is a common dental problem affecting 90% of adults between 20 and 64. 

CEREC Crowns x Modern Dental Prosthetics 

CEREC stands for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics. They are a great alternative to dental restoration, streamlining the crown placement process in a single dental visit. 

CEREC crowns offer a convenient and efficient solution for dental restoration. They are designed using programs like CAD/CAM, removing the struggles of messy impressions and temporary crowns. 

These crowns boast durability, natural appearance, and precise fit, making them a preferred choice for restoring damaged or decayed teeth. 

What Can You Expect While Obtaining CEREC Crowns?

Getting the CEREC crowns is a unique experience. These caps are different due to the technology behind their application. Here’s an overview of the different stages involved in the treatment: 

Stage I – Initial Consultation And Assessment

Your journey toward obtaining CEREC crowns in Shallotte, NC, begins with an initial consultation with your trusted dentist. At this stage, your dentist will thoroughly examine your dental condition and consider the extent of damage to your cavity.  

They will also analyze your oral health, specific needs, and preferences. This stage is usually longer than the others as it lays the foundation of your treatment. Once they have the answers, your professional will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your smile.

Stage II – Digital Impression Technology

As mentioned earlier, CEREC is a revolutionary procedure that leverages state-of-the-art digital impression technology. This method uses stick software like CAD/CAT to create 3D images of your cavity. 

This way, patients no longer have to deal with the sticky impressions or casts and enjoy effective scanning via a handheld scanner. Once your dentist has the digital impression, it works as a blueprint to craft your custom crown with unparalleled accuracy and precision.

Stage III – Designing The Crown With CAD/CAM Technology

CEREC crowns are designed by dentists using computer-aided design/manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology. It captures every minute detail of the crown, from its shape and size to its color and texture. 

Stage IV – Milling The Crown

After completing the design, experts will begin machining your CEREC crown. They use a sophisticated CEREC milling machine to create your custom crown from a solid ceramic block. 

This automated procedure takes around 15 to 20 minutes to create a finely designed crown. At the end of the process, you’ll have an appliance that properly fills the gap or hole created by your broken tooth.

Stage V – Precise Placement And Bonding

Once the crown has been milled and is ready for crowning, it’s time to begin the installation and bonding process. During this stage, your dentist will carefully assess the fit and appearance of the crown and make the required revisions. 

The entire process undergoes several to and fro before the crown perfectly fits over your natural teeth. Once your dentist is satisfied with the fit and look, they will secure the crown in its position. 

Stage VI – Finishing Touches

The final phase in the CEREC crown procedure involves your dentist adding finishing touches to your new restoration to make it flawless. At this stage, your dentist will remove any surplus material from your cavity. 

Once cleaned, they will lightly polish the crown’s surface to create a smooth and natural-looking finish for your smile. Once the steps are completed, you will have a beautifully constructed cap that blends in with your original teeth. 

Aftercare Tips For Your CEREC Crown

CEREC crowns can last up to 30 years when cared for, giving you great returns on your investment. 

You must take a few steps or tips to ensure you retain your appliance for a long time. Let’s have a closer look at these tips in the section below: 

• Handle With Care

While CEREC crowns are intended to survive daily use, it is critical to practice caution, particularly during the early post-placement phase. Avoid biting down firmly on hard items or using your teeth to open packages. Start with easy chewable meals and reduce the stress on your crown.

• Prioritize Oral Hygiene

Proper oral hygiene is critical to ensure your CEREC crown’s durability and overall dental health. Clean your teeth at least twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. 

• Mind Your Diet

While CEREC crowns are pretty durable, it is essential to be cautious of your food choices post-surgery. Avoid firm or sticky meals since these may dislodge or harm the crown. Instead, choose softer meals and chew on the other side of your mouth as needed.

• Stay On Schedule

Your dentist may arrange further sessions to evaluate the fit and performance of your crown. Attend these sessions promptly to address issues and ensure the crown fits perfectly with your natural teeth.

• Communicate Any Concerns

Your comfort and happiness are essential. If you suffer any discomfort or sensitivity, contact your surgeon for dentures in North Carolina. 

• Protective Measures

Protective measures are important to ensure the longevity of your appliance. So, if you grind your teeth (bruxism) or participate in contact sports, consider wearing a tailored mouthguard to protect your CEREC crown.

Takeaway

• Many adults experience tooth damage for various reasons, such as poor oral hygiene, dietary habits, injuries, and medications.
• CEREC crowns offer a modern solution that allows the crown placement process to be completed in one dental visit.
• Compared to traditional crowns, CEREC crowns are durable, natural-looking, and provide a precise fit.
• Obtaining CEREC crowns involves an initial consultation, digital impression technology, CAD/CAM design, milling the crown, precise placement and bonding, and finishing touches, all in a single dental visit.
• Patients should handle CEREC crowns gently, prioritize oral hygiene, be mindful of diet choices, and attend follow-up appointments.
• Make the most of your smile with CEREC crowns with our Carolina Coast Family Dentistry experts.