Turns out you have better things to do with your time.
Technology today is changing our everyday lives. Many people, however, aren't aware that technology also is impacting dentistry in new and exciting ways. Cutting-edge innovations in dental instruments ar requiring less time in the dental chair, causing less discomfort and creating satisfying results. One breakthrough instrument, called CEREC®, allows Dr. Lambing to quickly restore damaged teeth with natural-colored ceramic crowns, saving patients time and inconvienience.
What is CEREC®?
CEREC® is an acronym for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics. Translated, it means that Dr. Lambing can economically restore damaged teeth in a single appointment using a high-quality ceramic material that matches the natural color of other teeth.
How does the instrument work?
CEREC® uses CAD/CAM (Computer Aided Design/Computer Aided Manufacturing) technology, incorporating a camera, computer and milling machine in one instrument. Dr. Lambing uses a special camera to take an accurate picture of the damaged tooth. This optical impression is transferred and displayed on a color computer screen, where Dr. Lambing uses CAD technology to design the restoration. The CAM takes over and automatically creates the restoration while the patient waitd. FInally, Dr. Lambing bonds the new restoration to the surface of the old tooth. The whole process is completed in ONE VISIT!
What does this innovation mean for a patient?
The restoration is natural -looking, compatible with tissue in the mouth, anti-abrasive and plaque -resistant. No longer does the patient have to be in a temporary crown while the crown is fabricated in a lab. Because of this, the traditional second step has been eliminated. The CEREC® has over a decade of clinical research and documentation to support the technology. The restorations have been proven precise, safe and effective.
Call the office at (510)482-5300 to have any of your questions answered on this new technology.
A crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface restoring it to its original shape and size. A crown protects and strengthens tooth structure that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations.
Although there are several types of crowns, porcelain (tooth colored crown) are the most popular, because they resemble your natural teeth. They are highly durable and will last many years, but like most dental restorations, they will eventually need to be replaced. Porcelain crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color or your teeth giving you a natural, long-lasting beautiful smile.
Reasons for crowns:
What does getting a crown involve?
A crown procedure usually requires two appointments, unless you are a good candidate for the new CEREC® technology. If not, your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate molds (or impressions) that will be used to create your custom crown. A mold will also be used to create a temporary crown which will stay on your tooth for approximately two weeks until your new crown is fabricated by a dental laboratory.
While the tooth is numb, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the surface to properly fit the crown. Once these details are accomplished, your temporary crown will be placed with temporary cement and your bite will be checked to ensure you are biting properly.
At your second appointment your temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new crown will be carefully placed to ensure the spacing and bite are accurate.
You will be given care instructions and encouraged to have regular dental visits to check your new crown.