Cosmetic dentistry is the change in appearance of ones teeth by changing the shape, contour, and color of the tooth or teeth with a very thin layer of porcelain. The technique is similar to a woman’s acrylic fingernail, or an overlay. To create enough strength for the porcelain, so it doesn’t break, half millimeter to a seven tenths millimeter is used from the gum line, with gradual thickening over progression toward the chewside of the tooth. We are able to close gaps and make teeth wider or whiter. If cracking or damage occurs, the porcelain can be re-cemented. If treated properly, your smile will last for many years.
A CEREC tooth restoration isn't just convenient, it is also healthy. Many years ago, dentists had few options to repair decayed and damaged teeth other than amalgam, gold, and other metals. With CEREC, your dentist can use strong, tooth colored ceramic materials to restore your teeth to their natural strength, beauty, and function. These materials closely match the composition of natural tooth structure. This means when you eat hot food and then drink something cold, the restoration and tooth expand and contract at almost equal rates. So, your tooth does not crack, and you can go on enjoying your evening. Also, the materials are chemically bonded to your tooth, so your dentist can save as much healthy tooth tissue as possible while providing you with a dental restoration that strengthens your tooth.
Q: Why is powdering necessary?
The CEREC camera takes a three dimensional image of the tooth preparation. It uses infrared waves which are sent down to the preparation and back to the camera to measure the heights of the tooth structure, adjacent teeth, and surrounding tissue. Non-toxic, titanium dioxide powder is applied to the preparations and neighboring teeth to ensure the waves bounce back to the camera in a uniform manner. Since dentin, enamel, and gingiva absorb the infrared waves at different rates, an unpowdered field will reflect the waves inconsistently and result in a picture that the CEREC 3D software cannot use.
Q: Are there tips for taking a good picture?
The "3 Ps" of successful CEREC use are Prep, Powder, and Picture. Taking the optical impression can be a little tricky in the beginning. Here are a few helpful hints for taking a good picture:
- Make sure the preparation is in the center. The image must be clear and focused. Margins are visible. Corners are visible. The picture is taken from the path of insertion.
- No powder "spikes" or areas of no powder should be visible.
Q: Where can I buy a CEREC system?
In the US and Canada, Patterson Dental Supply, Inc. is the exclusive CEREC dealer. In other parts of the world, click the following link to find dealers of Sirona products:
Q: For which indications can CEREC create restorations?
CEREC can be used for a full range of indications: inlays, onlays, partial crowns, posterior crowns, anterior crowns, and veneers.
Q: What does "CEREC" mean?
CEREC is an acronym that stands for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics.
Q: How many CEREC units have been sold since CEREC 1 was introduced in 1987?
In 4th quarter of 2002, Sirona manufactured the 10,000th CEREC system. There are over 4,000 CEREC owners in the United States and Canada.
Q: How many CEREC restorations have been done?
There have been over 7,000,000 CEREC restorations placed world wide. The number continues to increase.