3 CEREC Same-Day Dental Crown FAQs

Dental crowns are the standard solution for repairing damaged or decayed teeth so you can continue using them to eat and speak normally. In the past, dentists relied on silver or amalgam restorations that were durable enough to withstand daily biting and chewing, but which often left patients feeling self-conscious about their appearance.

Thanks to contemporary dental technology and materials, today, many providers offer tooth-colored CEREC crowns that can be placed the same day as your initial visit. If you’re unfamiliar with this option, continue reading through these 3 frequently asked questions and answers to learn more!

Question #1: How are CEREC Dental Crowns Made?

Traditional tooth-colored dental crowns involve making impressions of your teeth that are sent to a dental laboratory to craft your restoration. It can take a couple of weeks for it to be delivered, so your dentist will likely need to place a temporary one to protect the affected tooth until the permanent one arrives and can be cemented in place.

Unfortunately, the longer the wait time, the more likely you are to develop additional damage, decay, or an infection. Meanwhile, CEREC dental crowns utilize advanced digital impressions that are uploaded to special software to design your tooth-shaped cap, which is then carved from an onsite milling machine in the same visit.

Question #2: How Long Do CEREC Dental Crowns Last?

Are you concerned that by opting for a same-day restoration that you’re sacrificing longevity for convenience? You’re not alone if you’re worried that a CEREC crown won’t last as long, but thankfully, that’s not the case.

These covers are made from resilient ceramic that resists chips, cracks, and stains, and they often last between 5 and 15+ years, which can be just as long as the lifespan of prosthetics made at a lab.

Question #3: Does Insurance Cover CEREC Dental Crowns?

Most dental insurance plans cover up to 100% of routine checkups, cleaning, and X-rays, and also include at least partial coverage of major procedures, such as getting a dental crown, regardless of how it’s made.

But every policy is unique and there are no guarantees, so it’s worth checking the details of your coverage. If you’re uninsured or are still worried about the cost, you can ask your dentist whether they offer any financial options, such as flexible payment plans, to help make treatments more affordable.

If you have a damaged tooth needing repair and aren’t sure whether you’re a good candidate for a CEREC dental crown, you can find out by scheduling an appointment with your provider!

About the Practice

Patients at Peery & Woolwine Family Dentistry benefit from a team of dentists who are dedicated to helping improve their lives by enhancing their dental condition. They collaborate to offer a complete menu of services, including CEREC dental crowns, to meet the unique needs of people of all ages. Their compassionate approach is paired with state-of-the-art technology to deliver beautiful, resilient results meant to last. You can request an appointment on the website or call the office at (434) 847-5331.