Tag Archives: Gilbert CEREC crowns

CEREC crowns

My CEREC Crown Doesn’t Feel Right

Hello,
I recently broke one of my crowns. I wanted to get it replaced ASAP, so I opted for a same-day CEREC crown.

My new CEREC crown feels too thick and doesn’t fit right.  Even after my dentist filed it down, it still isn’t fitting properly. None of my other crowns ever felt like this. I don’t think it’s going to get any better. I thought CEREC was the way to go, but now I’m regretting getting one. Is my crown salvageable? Or should I scrap it?

Thank you,

-Adrian, Tallahassee, Florida

Hi Adrian,

Thank you for your message. Unfortunately, it sounds like your dentist just wasn’t that comfortable using the CEREC software; if they had been, your problem should have been avoided. CEREC crowns are made using a high-tech machine. This machine’s software scans the tooth prior to milling the crown from ceramic. The result is a strong, long-lasting ceramic crown, so it’s disappointing to hear you had such a bad experience.

Even without using your previous crown or original tooth as a baseline, your dentist should have been able to properly guide the machine to create a crown contoured to your gums. If the crown doesn’t fit right at the gum line, food can get trapped underneath it, and that can lead to gum disease.

Crowns are designed to fit so seamlessly in your gums that you would not notice them. Ill-fitting crowns can cause you to bite your lip, cheeks, or tongue, especially while you sleep. Aside from being painful and annoying, this biting and chewing could lead to the growth of a tumor.

I’m glad you tried to take care of this problem, as it can become more serious. However, now that the crown is cemented in your mouth, it is likely too late to salvage it. Your best bet is to ask your dentist to remove the crown. If you want another CEREC crown, find a more experienced cosmetic dentist. Otherwise, have your dentist send the crown to a dental lab to be remade. A new, properly-fitting crown will feel so much better than what you have now.

This blog post is brought to you by Gilbert CEREC crown provider, Dr. Matthew Roper.

CEREC crowns

What is a cerec crown?

If you are in need of a crown, but haven’t considered a CEREC crown, or are unsure of what they are, it’s important to take time to understand the science behind them, and why they are exceptional.

What is a CEREC Crown?

Many dental offices have technology which enables them to provide “computer-assisted design-computer-assisted manufacture”, or CAD-CAM crowns. CEREC is the company that is most known for this technology. This type of crown is created by a computer to perfectly fit your tooth, which prevents the need for the lab involvement in manufacturing the crown.

This technology allows the all-ceramic crown to be made while you wait, thus there is no need for a second appointment or temporary crown.

Facts About CEREC Crowns

  1. No single brand of same-day crowns. Though many people ask for same-day crowns by asking for CEREC crowns, this is an brand of same-day crowns, similar to Zoom Whitening, which is a brand of teeth whitening, but there is not a single brand of teeth whitening. CEREC means “Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics”, but is not the only brand of same-day crowns. Often, the brand will use the phrase “same-day crowns”, or “crowns-in-day,” but these phrases are part of the marketing for the brand. However, the overall idea is the same with all restorations which take place in one dental visit. The office uses CAD/CAM technology to create it.
  2. CEREC crowns are billed the same as traditional crowns. Many people think the CEREC crown costs more than a traditional one. However, the opposite is true. For billing purposes, all dental procedures have billing codes. The billing code is the same for a CEREC crown and a traditional crown, therefore they cannot be billed any differently.
  3. They’re high-tech. CAD/CAM means a computer assists in the design. The program takes a picture of your mouth and plots out every detail. The measurements are exact. Then, the crowns are carved out by a machine in the office, with each new tooth starting out as a piece of material, oftentimes composite, zirconia, ceramic, or acrylic polymer, which is the same base for traditional crowns.

When operated and placed by an experienced cosmetic dentist, CAD/CAM crowns are a quick and efficient way to improve your smile, while maintaining a natural look and feel.

This article is provided by the office of Gilbert CEREC Crown provider, Dr. Matthew Roper.\


CEREC crowns

My crown keeps falling off

I had a CEREC crown placed. However, it has come out several times within the last year. Finally, after the fourth time, I consulted a different dentist, who replaced the crown with a zirconia porcelain crown, but it, too, has come out several times. The dentist suggested a full porcelain crown, stating that the cement is adhering to my tooth, but not the crown. He indicated that the all-porcelain crown is rough of the underneath and would, therefore, bond to the cement more effectively. I’m unsure of what my next step should be, but I am tired of the trouble these crowns have caused. What do you suggest I do?

Thank you,
Kodi

Kodi,

The CEREC crown, or same-day crown, is created by a computer in the dental office, the day of your appointment. When prepared and adhesed correctly, the crown will remain permanently affixed to the tooth. The material of which your crown is made is not indicative of how permanent the bond will be. Whether your crown is porcelain, gold, CEREC, or zirconia, all are made to stay permanently.

However, there are two factors that can determine if a crown will stay on permanently or not. They are the bonding strength of the cement, and the shape of the prepared tooth. The most important of these is the shape. If the tooth is prepared with little taper, a crown can be adhered with a weak cement, and it will stay permanently affixed. However, if there is a lot of taper, even some of the strongest cements will have difficulty staying on.

This is not implying that getting a solid bond between the crown and tooth would not solve your problem. The cement’s strength is important. But, when a tooth is prepared with good retention form, the crown will not fall off multiple times in one year. This indicates that your tooth may have been prepared with retention form that is insufficient.

To move forward, it would be a good idea to consult a dentist experienced in placing crowns that will stay on.

This article was brought to you by Gilbert CEREC Crown provider, Dr. Matthew Roper.

Affordable Dentistry

Affordable dentist practiced on me

I was in need of significant dental work, but my very tight budget prevented me from landing the procedures I desperately needed. I researched and stumbled upon an online ad from an affordable dentist. His promotion was that he was offering crowns at a lesser rate, as he practiced using a new in-office machine that makes crowns. I immediately reached out because I could afford his services and he was offering what I needed. This ended up being a terrible decision.

I was in his office for five hours. His machine kept giving him issues. In addition, the crowns were not fitting correctly. He made some changes to the tooth, then returned to the machine and was able to get them to fit. Now, in addition to my tooth being sore, my entire mouth is in pain. Is it possible that the dentist caused permanent damage? If so, am I responsible since he did, in fact, claim up front that he was offering the service and price because he was learning?

Sincerely,

Erica


Dear Erica,

I am sorry you went through this. It is a good idea for you to return to the dentist and let him know that you’re in pain. When teeth are bothered a lot, as yours were, they can become irritated. It sounds like you had repeated try-ons, and your teeth probably became very sensitive to this. For basic irritation, an over-the-counter medication like ibuprofen, that is an anti-inflammatory, will help ease the pain and it should clear up in just a few days. However, the pain might not improve on its own. You mentioned earlier that you needed a crown, but held off getting one. It could be that decay has formed and your tooth is now in need of a root canal, but this may be difficult to prove.

Regardless, the dentist is responsible for the work he did, whether he promoted himself as an affordable dentist or said that he was offering the low cost because he was practicing. An ethical dentist will want to know that you’re in pain and experiencing problems, and he will want to fix them. But, if he gives you an problems or does not fix the issue, you will need to consult another dentist.

For future dental needs, it is important to focus your search on a dental provider who has quality services and experience, then consult with him or her about ways to work within your budget. Many providers offer affordable dentistry plans which allow patients to spread out the dental costs, or take advantage of insurance benefits. Financing your treatment or choosing from different treatment options at various price points may also be an option.

This blog is provided by Dr. Matthew Roper, an affordable dentist in Gilbert, AZ.

 

CEREC crowns, Uncategorized

CEREC Crowns help with dental anxiety

If you are a person who suffers from dental anxiety, and haven’t visited a dentist in quite some time, you may not be aware of CEREC crowns, and how these restorations are are changing dentistry and lives.

CEREC crowns are made in the office

It used to be that a crown could only be done by going into the office for multiple visits. The doctor would removed the decay and/or damage, take impressions, and fit you for a temporary crown in the first visit. Your impressions would then be sent to a dental lab, where your restoration would be created, over a two-week timeframe. While some crowns remain this way, CEREC crowns are different.

Years ago, the only option when you needed to have a crown done was to go into the office for two visits. On the first visit, the doctor would remove the decay or damage on the tooth, build it up if need be, take impressions, and fit you with a temporary. Then, your impressions would get shipped off to a dental lab which would then craft your restoration over a period of two weeks. Some crowns are still this way, but CEREC crowns are different. These crowns are made in the office using CAD/CAM technology and a milling machine, allowing your crown to be created and placed all in one visit, easing the anxiety of a dental patient who may be troubled by the idea of multiple visits to the dental office.

Impressions are taken digitally

Often, people with dental anxiety have strong gag reflexes, or aversions to the impression process. The use of the CAD/CAM technology, allows the impressions to be taken digitally, similar to having a photo taken.

Can be combined with sedation dentistry

Nitrous oxide is a helpful way for patients with mild dental anxiety to feel more relaxed and comfortable. It takes effect quickly, and wears off almost immediately after treatment. For those patients with a more intense dental anxiety, conscious sedation will place you in a deeply relaxed state.

This blog is sponsored by Gilbert CEREC crowns dentist, Dr. Matthew Roper.

 

 

CEREC crowns

What should I do if my CEREC crown broke?

Two weeks ago, I had a CEREC crown done. I was recently eating, when I felt something come loose in my mouth. I came to find out this crown had broken in half. The dentist offered to fix the crown free of charge. While I was thankful for this, I wanted to know why this happened. I want to be sure this was just a fluke circumstance and not an error made by the dentist.

Sincerely,
Randi

Dear Randi,

While this is quite rare, there are some things that may have hinted that something was “off”, like tooth pain, jaw pain, or if the tooth was connecting first when you bit down.

Another possibility is the way the material handled stress, though it is unlikely that this is the case. However, if this were the case, it is possible there was some sort of defect in the material before use, though this, too, is unlikely.

Another thought is if you grind or clench your teeth, this may be the cause. Each tooth has a different threshold in terms of the amount of force it can withstand. This is why some restorations my break, while others do not. If this occurs during the day, practicing relaxation exercises can help. If it’s taking place at night, a night guard will prevent the grinding.

The majority of crowns can handle this to an extent, so you can’t rule out the material used or a mistake made by the dentist. It’s worth having him redo the procedure. It would be good to see what he thinks is the cause. Dentists have restorations fail from time to time. So long as this is not the norm, and he wants to fix the issue, it sounds like you’re in good hands.

This post is brought to you by Gilbert CEREC provider Dr. Matt Roper.

CEREC crowns

Are CEREC Crowns as Reliable as Regular Crowns?

At my last check-up, my dentist said I need three crowns. I wasn’t too surprised I needed them, but he’s pretty insistent I get CEREC crowns. My insurance doesn’t cover those and they’re more expensive. I’m not sure I want to invest in something more expensive just because it’s the newest thing unless I know it’s as reliable as the regular crowns. Do you have an opinion on this?

Louis A.

Dear Louis,

A CEREC Machine
When Should You Get a CEREC Crown?

A lot of whether or not a dental crown is reliable depends more on the dentist than anything else. Some dentists get better results than others. However, there are times when a CEREC crown is better than a traditional one. There are times it’s the other way around as well.

Because they’re computer milled, CEREC crowns often fit better. They do well in front and side teeth, but aren’t always strong enough for back teeth. For those, you may prefer a zirconia crown or a porcelain fused to metal crown.

Their biggest benefit is you can have your three crowns done in one visit, without a temporary crown. Other than that, everything else truly depends on the skill of your dentist.

If you decide you want a CEREC crown, your dentist can bill the insurance for the regular crown and you just pay the difference, which isn’t too substantial.

Some Considerations with CEREC Crowns

Placement is the biggest issue. If it’s going to be visible and you’ve ever wanted to whiten your teeth do the teeth whitening before you have the crown milled. If it’s a visible side tooth, that should be sufficient for an attractive looking smile.

However, if it’s a front tooth, you’ll want a traditional crown. CEREC crowns are milled out of a single block of porcelain which, though beautiful does not have all the subtleties necessary for a front tooth. You’ll want something sculpted from various blocks so that the right level of translucency comes across at the appropriate parts of the tooth. Otherwise, it can look a little flat compared to the tooth next to it. You’ll know it’s a little different without knowing why. It will still be attractive, just not as attractive as it could have been.

Again, each dentist’s skills vary in this area, so ask to see sample before and after pictures of their work.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Matt Roper.

CEREC crowns

Why Does My CEREC Crown Look Like a Piece of Chicklet Gum?

My dentist got in this new CEREC machine. He was so excited. In fact, I remember him talking about how he couldn’t wait to get it at my last appointment. So, when I needed a crown, he was almost giddy. He’d get to use his new toy. I was happy for him and happy about only needing one appointment. But, when I got the crown, it’s way whiter than the rest of my teeth and looks like a rectangular piece of Chicklet gum. I can’t believe my dentist was so excited about this. Is that was CEREC crowns always look like? I wouldn’t mind if it were a back tooth, but it’s a front tooth and very distracting.

Cyrill K.

Dear Cyrill,

I’m sure you’ve heard the phrase, “The only difference between men and boys is the size of their toys.” It sounds like your dentist was as joyful as a boy at Christmas with his new CEREC machine. While it is the CEREC which mills the crowns, it’s the dentist who designs the crown.

If your crown looks like unnatural, it’s not because it’s a CEREC crown. It’s because your dentist isn’t a skilled cosmetic dentist. Have you tried telling him how unhappy you are with the crown? He might be willing to re-do it, especially if it means he gets to use his new machine again. Or, he may give you a refund.

If the color difference is the only issue, you may want to consider whitening the surrounding teeth to match the crown. Any teeth whitening you do will not affect the crown. It only changes the color of natural tooth structures. However, you mentioned the shape being different from the other teeth too, so re-doing it is the only thing which will fix that.

If for some reason he refuses, you may want to get a second opinion on the crown. If it’s obviously mismatched to the surrounding teeth, that dentist could put pressure on him to refund your money. Dentists care about what their peers think of their work.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Matt Roper.

CEREC crowns

Are CEREC Crowns Reliable?

I need to get my first crown. I’ve been doing some research and think I want to go the CEREC route. However, I need to be sure they’re reliable. I work in a field where my smile is important. I have a few friends that have crowns and they all have had problems with them falling out at one time or another. Most of them said it was the temps that fall, which is why I’m thinking a CEREC. However, one of my friends even has his regular crowns fall out. Plus, they don’t look that great. I do wonder if this has more to do with his dentist. He doesn’t have much money, so I’m not sure he’s going to the best dentist.

Ben H. – Ft. Worth, TX

Ben,

You’ve brought up a few important concepts. First, is bonding. The biggest factor in a crowns ability to say is it being designed to fit properly.  A well-designed dental crown will stay in without any bonding agent.  Of course, that wouldn’t hold if you were eating something sticky which could pull down from an unbonded tooth. However, once it’s bonded you should be able to eat what you want.

Yes, temporary crowns do have a tendency to fall out. That’s because they’re designed to be removed easily to make way for the permanent crown.

CEREC crowns are bonded in immediately, so you’ll not have to deal with a temporary crown. They’re also milled by a computer, which does sometimes increase the accuracy. Though, a traditional crown can be equally well made.

Your comment about your friend’s experience and a less expensive dentist is interesting. People sometimes mistake cheap dentistry for affordable dentistry. You can have an affordable dentist who still uses quality materials, but works to keep his prices lower in other ways. Or, maybe he or she has interest free payment plans. A cheap dentist, on the other hand, will advertise their low prices to draw people in, but uses cheaper materials to keep his profit margin up. Or, it could just be a matter of him not being a very skilled dentist.

As to the appearance of the crown, that also depends on the skill of the dentist. Some dentists are more artistic than others. I’d recommend asking to see before and after pictures of their work to get an idea what type of results they can deliver.

Also, because you mentioned appearance being important to your job, if you’re going to get your teeth whitened, do it before getting the crown made. You won’t be able to change the color of the crown once it’s done. So make sure your teeth are the color you want.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Matt Roper.

CEREC crowns

CEREC Crowns and Teeth Grinding

My husband says I’m just finding excuses because I’m afraid of the dentist, but I think it’s a legitimate concern. I’m scheduled to get a CEREC crown next week. But, the more I think about it, I think it won’t hold up with nighttime grinding the way my normal teeth do. Am I right?

Cecelia M. – North Dakota

Cecelia,

In a way, you’re both right. CEREC crowns will not hold up to nighttime grinding, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get it. Here’s why. First, you need a crown. Leaving your tooth untreated will cause you serious problems in a very short timespan.

Second, your natural teeth will not bear up under the grinding either. In fact, your grinding is likely what led to you needing a crown to begin with.

Get the CEREC crown, then get fitted for a nightguard to protect all your teeth–real and replacement.

However, all that being said, your dental anxiety can be dealt with too. You don’t have to put yourself through the anxiety. Ask your dentist about sedation dentistry. It can give you a worry-free and pain-free appointment. Likely, it will change your view of going to the dentist forever.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Matt Roper.