Porcelain Dental Crowns at Lake Forest Dental Health Care

smiling with porcelain dental crowns

Porcelain dental crowns are used to restore severely broken teeth. Our dental crowns are all made of porcelain, like veneers, and look every bit as natural, leaving no black line at the gum level as seen with some traditional crowns. Crowns are extremely versatile and can be used to align crowding or protruding teeth, close gaps or lighten tooth color. The strength and appearance of our porcelain dental crowns rival that of natural teeth and are used to make long lasting changes to the smile.
porcelain dental crowns

Porcelain dental crowns can be used to mask a single dark tooth, but more often are used as part of smile makeover. At our clinic, our smile makeovers start at the consultation where we find out what patients don’t like about their teeth and what type of smile is required. Computer aided smile design is then used to design the smile and to fine tune the required tooth shapes and color to the patient’s wishes.

Traditional Dental Crowns

When the patient is ready to proceed with treatment, the next step is to create a 3d preview model. Our ceramist uses the computer aided smile design to create this 3d version of the smile so it can be checked from all angles for aesthetics and function.

Porcelain dental crowns are then provided as planned, over two main treatment appointments. At the first appointment, any broken down teeth are built up first, then the teeth are prepared. This process involves trimming back a thin layer from around the tooth to make room for the crown. Impressions are taken and temporary crowns are made using a template made from the 3d preview model. Importantly, this gives our patients an opportunity to trial the planned smile design in their own mouths before the crowns are made. Any changes or fine adjustments can be made to the temporaries and reproduced in the final crowns. All crowns are made with this technique at our clinic.

These treatments are all carried out using our pain-free anesthetic techniques.

Porcelain dental crowns are then fitted at the second main treatment appointment. Our crowns are fitted with a multi-layer bonding system that bonds the crowns to the teeth with unparalleled strength. The crowns are polished and bite checked and then revealed to our patients. We also see our patients a few days later to check that all is well when they’ve had some time to use them and eat with them. At that appointment, we also take portrait photos for our patients to take away with them.

CEREC Same Day Crowns

CEREC, which stands for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics, crowns are a cutting-edge development in dental technology that streamline the process of getting a dental crown. Instead of multiple visits to the dentist over a few weeks, a CEREC crown is designed and created in just a single appointment. This is made possible by using CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing) technology to create a 3D model of the patient’s tooth, which is then used to mill the final crown in the dental office itself.

The process begins with the dentist preparing the damaged tooth to accept the crown. A digital image of the tooth is taken using an intraoral scanner, creating an extremely accurate 3D model. This model is used by the CAD software to design the precise shape of the crown. Once the design is complete, it’s sent to the in-office milling machine which carves the crown from a ceramic block in as little as 5-20 minutes. The crown is then polished and fitted to the patient’s tooth, with adjustments made as necessary. As it’s all done in a single visit, CEREC crowns eliminate the need for a temporary crown and return visits, making it a more convenient and efficient solution for patients.

Call or visit our Dentist office to schedule a consultation for dental crowns in Lake Forest!

FAQs on CEREC Crowns

How much does CEREC cost compared to traditional crowns?

The cost of CEREC crowns may vary depending on several factors, including the location of the dental practice, the complexity of the case, and the materials used. CEREC crowns are usually comparable in price to traditional crowns but everyone’s specific needs are different.

CEREC crowns are made using advanced CAD/CAM technology, allowing them to be fabricated and placed in a single dental visit. This eliminates the need for temporary crowns and multiple dental appointments, which can save both time and money in the long run.

On the other hand, traditional crowns are typically fabricated in an off-site dental laboratory, requiring at least two dental appointments: one for preparation and temporary crown placement, and another for the final crown placement. So with time factored in, it usually is more expensive than CEREC crowns.

It’s important to note that dental insurance coverage and individual treatment plans can also affect the overall cost of either option. To get a precise estimate, it is recommended to consult with your dentist. They can evaluate your specific dental needs and provide you with an accurate cost comparison between CEREC and traditional crowns based on your unique circumstances.

How long does it take to get a CEREC crown?

Unlike traditional crowns that require multiple dental visits, CEREC crowns can be completed in a single appointment. The entire process, from digital impressions to crown fabrication and placement, can often be completed in just a few hours! This saves you time and eliminates the need for temporary crowns.

Are CEREC crowns as durable as traditional crowns?

Yes, CEREC crowns are known for their durability and strength. They are made from high-quality ceramic materials that are designed to withstand normal biting and chewing forces. With proper care and maintenance, CEREC crowns can last for many years.

Are CEREC crowns aesthetically pleasing?

Yes, CEREC crowns are known for their natural appearance and aesthetic appeal. The ceramic material used closely resembles the color and translucency of natural teeth, resulting in a highly lifelike restoration that blends seamlessly with the rest of your smile.

Is the CEREC process safe?

Yes, the CEREC process is safe and has been used in dentistry for many years. The technology is well-established and has undergone extensive testing and refinement. Your dentist will ensure that all necessary precautions are taken to ensure your safety and comfort throughout the CEREC crown procedure.

What is a CEREC same day crown made out of?

It is made out of high-strength ceramic material similar to some traditional crowns. It is very durable, lasting the usual 12-15 years, roughly the same as traditional crowns, so you don’t have to worry about compromising strength for convenience.


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Financing Options

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