CEREC® Dentist Houston, TX
Technology has brought advances across many industries, and dental care is one of them. One of the newest breakthroughs is CEREC® (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramic) technology. This cutting-edge system creates ceramic tooth restorations on a same-day basis. Patients must no longer wait for their crowns or veneers to come back from the lab as this state-of-the-art process crafts them in the office.
CEREC is available at Midtown Dental - The Gallery of Smiles in Houston and the surrounding area. Schedule a consultation with our team and learn more about this system and whether it is the right choice for you. Contact our office at (713) 979-4127 to make an appointment today.
Understanding CEREC
CEREC, also known as Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics, is a computer-assisted technology that enables dentists to create same-day permanent dental restorations. This technology also makes precision parts, tools, and even vehicles for decades. It has allowed cosmetic dentists to create dental restoration solutions that would not be possible otherwise.
The design process involves three-dimensional imaging of the patient's teeth and bite to create customized dental restorations. A study in the Journal of Oral Implantology shows that the resulting restoration is less prone to error than a traditional one. This cutting-edge process is a quick and precise means of producing ceramic veneers, crowns, bridges, and more.
“CEREC, also known as Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics, is a computer-assisted technology that enables dentists to create same-day permanent dental restorations.”
Benefits of CEREC Technology
CEREC technology rivals the lost-wax casting method, which uses wax to make a second mold for the dental restoration piece. The American Dental Association details how the dental CAD/CAM systems use scanners to take measurements and collect all details of the teeth and gums quickly and precisely. Automating production using this data helps simplify what is otherwise a lengthy laboratory process.
The CEREC system makes the restoration process faster, easier, and less expensive. CEREC restoration benefits include the following:
- Better fit: CAD/CAM systems produce high-quality restorations. The process eliminates errors as the system relies on the precise digital data that it collects. When compared to CEREC, the laboratory process is more prone to having subjective or human errors.
- Better product: The manufacturing process results in a one-unit restoration piece rather than separate pieces. This single-unit process is especially beneficial for bridges and other multi-piece appliances. It also adds to the durability and strength of the finished piece.
- Faster process: CEREC software allows dentists to see three-dimensional images created from oral scans. Based on this information, the dentist uses the system to design the restoration piece with the necessary bite adjustments. The CAM unit then creates the appliance using the finalized design.
“CEREC technology rivals the lost-wax casting method, which uses wax to make a second mold for the dental restoration piece.”
How CEREC Works
CEREC uses Computer Assisted Design and Computer Assisted Milling (CAD-CAM) technology to create same-day restorations. CEREC technology allows dentists to quickly and precisely create natural dental restorations for each patient's specifications. The patient will be numbed with a local anesthetic before the process to minimize discomfort.
Then, we will prepare the implant or tooth to receive the restoration by using an intraoral scanner to take digital images of the treatment area. CEREC technology converts the image into a three-dimensional virtual model, and the software designs the final restoration. The CEREC mill accurately carves the custom restoration out of a ceramic block before our team reviews the restoration to ensure it fits properly. Once the restoration has been milled, colored, and polished, the dentist cements it to the prepared tooth or dental implant.
“CEREC uses Computer Assisted Design and Computer Assisted Milling (CAD-CAM) technology to create same-day restorations.”
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Google: CEREC® Dentist in Houston, TX
The CEREC Process Length
The process of creating and receiving a CEREC restoration can easily occur in one appointment. While the traditional process of creating a dental crown can take between two to three weeks, we can create and place CEREC crowns in as little as two hours. The CEREC machine can produce a new crown for a patient in four to 20 minutes.
This quick process is especially advantageous for busy patients. CEREC technology eliminates the need for multiple trips to the dentist's office. Our team can create the model of the patient's mouth, make the restoration, and place it all in one appointment with a CEREC machine.
“The process of creating and receiving a CEREC restoration can easily occur in one appointment.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What are the benefits of CEREC?
Q. What are the steps in the CEREC restoration process?
Q. How long does it take to receive a CEREC restoration?
Q. How should patients take care of their CEREC restorations?
People Also Ask
Q. What is it like to go through the process of receiving a dental crown?
Q. How often should I see the dentist?
Q. What are the benefits of restoration dentistry?
Q. What is entailed in the process before getting a dental crown?
Q. When would I need a dental restoration?
Q. What additional treatments are available at a general dentist?
What To Expect After Receiving a CEREC Restoration
The CEREC restoration should be treated gently for the first 24 hours so the adhesive can cure completely. Beyond a bit of discomfort and sensitivity for the first few days, no complications are expected. Recommendations include no chewing of hard or sticky foods, such as ice or chewy candy. Even after 24 hours, care should be taken not to damage the restoration.
All teeth should be brushed and flossed daily, and the patient should continue to have regular checkups and cleanings at least every six months. Getting a CEREC restoration is a reliable choice as it tends to be strong and likely to last and resist abrasion. The advanced technology is also a better choice for your overall dental health as there is less risk for tooth decay, and they are metal-free.
“The advanced technology is also a better choice for your overall dental health as there is less risk for tooth decay, and they are metal-free.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Do CEREC restorations cost more than traditional ones?
A. CEREC restorations cost around the same amount as traditional ones. Although insurance usually covers CEREC at the same rate as traditional restorations, each patient should request a detailed estimate from an insurance provider in advance. CEREC does not require an additional appointment like other restorations do and may save some patients the cost of another appointment.
Q. Will my CEREC crown only take one day to implant?
A. Having a CEREC machine on-site means the dentist does not have to send impressions to a dental lab to create crowns. Most restorations take one day to complete. A CEREC restoration does not take as long as a traditional, lab-created crown to make.
Q. Does getting a CEREC restoration hurt?
A. Before the restoration, the cosmetic dentist will apply a local anesthetic to minimize any discomfort. It is normal for teeth to feel sensitive for up to two weeks after the procedure. Patients may experience discomfort when eating or drinking anything sweet, hot, or cold.
Q. Can CEREC technology handle zirconia crowns?
A. According to a BMC Oral Health study, chairside CEREC machines can also use zirconia blocks. As zirconia is crystalline at room temperature, it has to be heat-treated to form a solid block for the milling machine. Once the zirconia crown is milled, it is heated again before being cemented in place.
Q. How does CEREC work with dental implants?
A. Dental implants are prosthetic tooth roots. Individual implants require crowns to complete the restoration and create functional prosthetic teeth. CEREC crowns can bond to implant abutments, just like traditional crowns. CEREC crown strength makes them an excellent choice for dental implants.
Scan here to view this page, CEREC® Dentist, on mobile
Dental Terminology
Call Us Today
Midtown Dental - The Gallery of Smiles in Houston now offers CEREC technology to help patients receive quick and accurate dental restorations. To find out if this same-day restoration is right for you, call us at (713) 979-4127.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2025
About our business and website security
- Midtown Dental – The Gallery of Smiles was established in 2001.
- We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Check, MasterCard, and Visa
- We serve patients from the following counties: Harris County
- We serve patients from the following cities: Aldine, Missouri City, Pasadena, Fresno and Baytown
- National Provider Identifier Database (1881807758). View NPI Registry Information
- Healthgrades. View Background Information and Reviews
- Norton Safe Web. View Details
- Trend Micro Site Safety Center. View Details
Scan here to open directions to Midtown Dental - The Gallery of Smiles on mobile
Back to top of CEREC® Dentist
Related Posts
Learn How A CEREC Dentist Can Restore Your Smile
For patients getting ready to undergo dental restoration with a CEREC® dentist, worries are common. Many patients are concerned that their smiles may be impacted, such as if a new crown does not quite match the color of their existing teeth. In fact, this technique uses Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramic® technology to create…
Dental Crowns: Their Purpose, Process, And Longevity
A dental crown is a custom-made restoration designed to strengthen, protect, and restore the appearance of a tooth weakened by damage, decay, or wear. Used frequently in general, family, and cosmetic dentistry, a dental crown offers long-term protection while enhancing the look and function of the natural tooth. Understanding its purpose, the treatment process, and…
What To Do About A Loose Dental Crown
Teeth that are severely decayed or fractured may benefit from dental crowns, which cover the damaged portions of the teeth, protecting them and restoring their functionality. A dental crown is crafted to fit the remaining portion of the tooth exactly and permanently bond to it. However, crowns are not perfect, and while they are usually…
When Is A Dental Crown Recommended?
When a dental practitioner recommends a dental crown, it may not be up to the patient. These dental devices are used to treat various conditions that cause a tooth to need serious work. When a crown is required, it usually means that the tooth it covers is too far gone to be useful, but it…
Explore additional topics covered on our website:
Call Us Today
Scan here to call Midtown Dental - The Gallery of Smiles on mobile
