Let’s be honest — no one looks forward to getting a dental crown. The process used to involve multiple appointments, goopy impressions, temporary crowns that could fall out, and weeks of waiting. But thanks to CEREC same-day crown technology, that’s quickly becoming a thing of the past.
With CEREC, you can get a custom-designed, permanent ceramic crown in just one visit. It’s fast, efficient, and tailored to match your natural smile saving you time while restoring both your confidence and your oral health.
In this blog post, we’ll break down exactly how CEREC crowns work, their key benefits, and why more patients are choosing this modern solution to get their smile back on track, faster.
What are CEREC crowns?
CEREC stands for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics. In simpler terms, it’s a system that allows your dentist to create and place dental crowns, veneers, inlays, or onlays in a single appointment, right in the office.
The technology relies on CAD/CAM (computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing). This means your dentist can scan your tooth digitally, design a crown that fits perfectly, and mill it on-site, all while you relax in the chair.
Unlike traditional crowns, there’s no need to send impressions to an outside lab, wait weeks for the crown to be made, or deal with a temporary crown that might come loose or cause discomfort.
The traditional crown process vs. CEREC
Let’s compare the typical process for a traditional crown with what you can expect from CEREC:
| Traditional Crowns | CEREC Same Day Crowns |
| Multiple appointments | One single appointment |
| Physical impressions (messy and uncomfortable) | Digital scan (quick and precise) |
| Temporary crown needed | Permanent crown same-day |
| 2-3 weeks wait for the lab to return the crown | 1-2 hour wait while the crown is milled in-office |
| Possible re-fitting needed | High-precision fit on the first try |
In terms of convenience, comfort, and efficiency, CEREC is a clear winner.
Benefits of CEREC same-day crowns
1. Saves you valuable time
In today’s fast-paced world, who has time for multiple dental visits? With CEREC, you can walk in with a damaged or decayed tooth and walk out with a fully restored one — all in about 2 hours. This is ideal for busy professionals, parents, or anyone who prefers to minimize time off work or away from daily responsibilities.
2. No temporary crowns
Traditional crowns require a temporary crown while the permanent one is being made. Temporary crowns can fall off, feel uncomfortable, or even cause sensitivity. With CEREC, there’s no temporary crown required, meaning no extra hassle and a more seamless experience.
3. Digital Precision
CEREC uses 3D digital imaging to capture an ultra-accurate scan of your tooth. This eliminates the need for gooey impression material and reduces the risk of human error. The result is a restoration that fits precisely and feels natural from day one.
4. Natural look and feel
CEREC crowns are made from high-quality ceramic that closely mimics natural tooth enamel in color, translucency, and strength. Your dentist can shade-match the crown to blend perfectly with your surrounding teeth.
5. Durable and long-lasting
Don’t let the speed fool you — CEREC crowns are built to last. When properly cared for, they can last 10-15 years or more, making them a reliable long-term solution for restoring damaged teeth.
Who is a good candidate for CEREC?
CEREC crowns are ideal for a variety of situations, including:
- Cracked or chipped teeth
- Teeth with large fillings that need extra support
- Severely decayed teeth that cannot be filled
- Toothwear from grinding (bruxism)
- Cosmetic restoration needs
However, not every case may be suitable for CEREC. In cases involving gum disease, certain bite issues, or complex root canals, your dentist might recommend a traditional crown or another treatment. That’s why a consultation is always the first step — to determine the best option for your smile.
How the CEREC process works
If you’re wondering what your visit will be like, here’s a step-by-step overview of how a CEREC crown appointment typically unfolds:
1. Evaluation & Preparation
Your dentist will examine the damaged tooth and determine whether a crown is necessary. If so, they’ll numb the area, clean the tooth, and shape it to prepare for the crown.
2. Digital Scan
Instead of using impression putty, your dentist will use a 3D intraoral camera to scan your tooth. This digital image is incredibly precise and forms the blueprint for your crown.
3. Crown Design
Using CAD software, your dentist will design the crown right there at the chairside. You might even be able to watch the process on a screen!
4. Milling the Crown
The design is sent to a CEREC milling machine in the office. In about 15–20 minutes, your new crown is carved from a solid ceramic block — no lab required.
5. Fitting and Final Touches
Your dentist will check the fit, shape, and bite of the crown, then bond it permanently to your tooth. A bit of polishing, and you’re all set — with no return visit necessary.
Are CEREC crowns more expensive?
CEREC crowns are often comparable in cost to traditional crowns, especially when you factor in the added convenience and saved time. Plus, many dental insurance plans offer similar coverage for both.
Some patients even save money by avoiding the second appointment, extra anesthetic, and temporary crown costs. If you’re concerned about pricing, your dental office can provide a personalized estimate and help you understand your insurance benefits.
Final thoughts: a modern way to smile
Dental technology has come a long way — and CEREC is proof of that. Whether you’re dealing with a broken tooth, an old filling that needs replacing, or just want to restore your smile with minimal disruption to your schedule, CEREC same-day crowns offer a faster, more comfortable solution without compromising on quality.
In just one appointment, you can leave our office with a strong, natural-looking crown — and the confidence that comes with a healthy, complete smile. If you’ve been putting off dental treatment because of time, discomfort, or anxiety, CEREC could be the solution you’ve been waiting for.
Ready to restore or protect your smile?
If you’ve been putting off dental treatment because of time, discomfort, or anxiety, CEREC same-day crowns could be the solution you’ve been waiting for.
Discover the path to a healthier, pain-free smile by booking your personalized CEREC consultation at Greater Long Island Dental in Massapequa, NY. Our skilled team is here to guide you through the process with care and expertise. Our office is a warm and welcoming environment, and our entire team ensures you feel truly understood and comfortable every time you visit us.
Contact us online or give us a call at (516) 798-4223 to book your appointment today!