CEREC is a techonological partnership between cutting edge CAD/CAM (computer-aided design and computer-aided-manufacturing) technology and milling technnology that enables Colfax Dental to create crowns, inlays, onlays, and veneers in a single visit. This advanced machinery has top-notch imaging and milling accuracy, allowing the delivery of an incredibly precise fit for our patients. Another benefit includes a more durable and aesthetic prostheses created for our patients. Compared to the traditional approach of sending off casting to a third party producer, this convenience is an incredible asset for our patients. Traditional methods of placing crowns and other restorations take 2-3 weeks between a patient’s first visit and their final visit to fit their crown, due to the crown itself being fabricated at a dental lab. Now we are able to work on your teeth, create your restoration, and place it all in-office, often in a single visit.
The Process Using CEREC
The process starts when Dr. Turner works on the patient’s tooth to remove all tooth decay. Then we utilize a small intraoral camera to render a 3-D image of the tooth in order to start collecting images for the restoration’s design. This digital scanner allows us to say goodbye to traditional methods of “goo”-filled impression trays that were a messier and less convenient procedure. After Dr. Turner collects the appropriate design images, he is able to fabricate the restoration directly on the CEREC machine. The machine itself transmits the digital images to its mill and the restoration is milled, often as rapidly as within 15 minutes. The patient will then have their newly fabricated restoration placed in, all in a single visit.
If you’d like to learn more about our technology or have any questions, give us a call and our staff would be more than happy to speak with you.