When you need a dental crown, you face an important decision: should you choose traditional crowns that require multiple visits and temporary restorations, or opt for CEREC same-day crowns that can be designed, fabricated, and placed in a single appointment?

At Harrison Family Dentistry in Chattanooga, we use advanced CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) technology to create beautiful, durable crowns in just one visit—eliminating temporary crowns, multiple appointments, and weeks of waiting.

---

What Are Dental Crowns?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that completely covers a damaged, decayed, or weakened tooth. Crowns restore the tooth's shape, size, strength, and appearance while protecting it from further damage.

You might need a crown if you have:

• A tooth with a large cavity too big for a filling
• A cracked or broken tooth
• A tooth weakened by root canal therapy
• Severe tooth wear or erosion
• A dental implant that needs a restoration
• A tooth with cosmetic imperfections you want to correct

Whether you choose CEREC or traditional crowns, the goal is the same: restore your tooth's function and appearance with a long-lasting, natural-looking restoration.

---

CEREC Same-Day Crowns: How They Work

CEREC technology allows us to design, create, and place your crown in a single appointment—typically in about 2-3 hours.

The CEREC Process

Step 1: Digital Impression (10-15 minutes)

We use a digital scanner to capture detailed 3D images of your tooth. No goopy, uncomfortable impression trays required—just a small wand that takes precise digital measurements.

Step 2: Digital Design (5-10 minutes)

Using specialized software, we design your crown right here in our office, customizing it to match your natural teeth perfectly. You can even watch the design process on the screen.

Step 3: Milling (15-20 minutes)

Our in-office CEREC milling machine carves your crown from a solid block of high-quality dental ceramic. This happens while you wait in our comfortable office.

Step 4: Placement (30-45 minutes)

We prepare your tooth, check the fit and appearance of your new crown, make any final adjustments, and permanently cement it in place.

Total time: One appointment, same day. You leave with your permanent crown.

---

Traditional Crowns: The Multi-Visit Process

Traditional crowns require at least two appointments spread over 2-3 weeks, along with a temporary crown in between.

Traditional Crown Timeline

Appointment 1 (60-90 minutes)

• Tooth preparation and shaping
• Impressions taken with impression trays or putty
• Temporary crown fabricated and cemented
• Impressions sent to external dental lab

Waiting Period (2-3 weeks)

• Wear temporary crown (may be fragile, feel bulky, or come loose)
• Avoid sticky or hard foods
• Be careful when flossing around temporary
• External lab fabricates your permanent crown

Appointment 2 (30-60 minutes)

• Remove temporary crown
• Check fit and appearance of permanent crown
• Make adjustments if needed
• Permanently cement crown

Total time: Two appointments plus 2-3 weeks of wearing a temporary crown.

---

CEREC vs Traditional Crowns: Key Differences

Number of Appointments

CEREC: One appointment, same day

Traditional: Two appointments, 2-3 weeks apart

Winner: CEREC (saves time, less disruption to your schedule)

Temporary Crowns

CEREC: No temporary needed

Traditional: Temporary crown for 2-3 weeks (can break, feel uncomfortable, or come loose)

Winner: CEREC (no temporary means no risk of breaking or sensitivity between visits)

Impression Method

CEREC: Digital scan (quick, comfortable, highly accurate)

Traditional: Physical impression trays with putty (can trigger gag reflex, less comfortable)

Winner: CEREC (digital impressions are faster and more comfortable)

Fabrication Location

CEREC: Made in our Chattanooga office while you wait

Traditional: Sent to external lab, shipped back 2-3 weeks later

Winner: CEREC (complete control over quality, no shipping delays)

Materials

CEREC: High-quality dental ceramic (tooth-colored, strong, biocompatible)

Traditional: Various options (ceramic, porcelain-fused-to-metal, gold, zirconia)

Winner: Tie (both offer excellent, durable materials; traditional offers more material choices)

Precision and Fit

CEREC: Computer-designed with digital precision, milled to exact specifications

Traditional: Hand-crafted by lab technician (highly skilled, but more variables)

Winner: CEREC (digital design eliminates human error in measurements)

Longevity

CEREC: 10-15+ years with proper care

Traditional: 10-15+ years with proper care

Winner: Tie (both are durable and long-lasting when properly maintained)

---

Benefits of CEREC Same-Day Crowns at Harrison Family Dentistry

Save Time and Hassle

Complete your crown in one visit instead of two. No time off work for multiple appointments, no juggling your schedule, no waiting weeks.

Skip the Temporary Crown

Avoid the discomfort, fragility, and potential embarrassment of temporary crowns. You leave with your permanent restoration the same day.

Comfortable Digital Impressions

No goopy impression materials that trigger your gag reflex. Our digital scanner is quick, comfortable, and more accurate.

Immediate Results

See your new crown and how it looks in your smile before you leave. Make adjustments on the spot if needed.

Consistent Quality

Because we design and create your crown in our office, we maintain complete quality control throughout the entire process.

Advanced Technology

Our CEREC same-day crown system represents the latest in dental technology, providing precision and efficiency that traditional methods can't match.

---

When Traditional Crowns Might Be Preferred

While CEREC crowns offer tremendous advantages for most patients, there are some situations where traditional crowns might be recommended:

Complex Cases

Certain complex restorations or full-mouth reconstructions may benefit from the specialized expertise of a dental laboratory technician.

Specific Material Preferences

If you specifically want gold crowns or certain types of porcelain-fused-to-metal restorations, traditional fabrication may be necessary.

Insurance Coverage

Some dental insurance plans have specific coverage limitations. We'll help you understand your benefits and make the best choice for your situation.

Personal Preference

Some patients prefer the traditional approach or want more time to adjust to the idea of their new crown before permanent placement.

At Harrison Family Dentistry, we discuss all your options and help you choose the best solution for your individual needs.

---

CEREC Crown FAQs

Are CEREC crowns as strong as traditional crowns?

Yes. CEREC crowns are made from high-quality dental ceramic that's just as strong and durable as traditional crowns. With proper care, they can last 10-15+ years or longer.

Will my CEREC crown look natural?

Absolutely. We carefully match the color and translucency to your surrounding teeth. CEREC crowns are made from tooth-colored ceramic that mimics natural enamel beautifully.

Does getting a CEREC crown hurt?

The procedure is no more uncomfortable than getting a traditional crown. We use local anesthesia to numb the area, and most patients report minimal discomfort. Sedation options are available if you're anxious about dental work.

How long does a CEREC crown appointment take?

Most CEREC crown appointments take 2-3 hours from start to finish. You'll leave the same day with your permanent crown in place.

Does insurance cover CEREC crowns?

Most dental insurance plans cover CEREC crowns the same as traditional crowns. We'll verify your benefits and explain your coverage before treatment.

Can CEREC crowns be used for any tooth?

CEREC crowns work well for most situations. During your examination, we'll determine if CEREC is the right choice for your specific case.

---

The CEREC Advantage in Chattanooga

Not all Chattanooga dental offices offer CEREC technology. At Harrison Family Dentistry, we've invested in this advanced system because we've seen how much our patients appreciate the convenience, comfort, and quality of same-day crowns.

What sets our CEREC service apart:

Experienced Doctors

Dr. Henderson and Dr. Fitzhugh have extensive training in CEREC technology and have successfully placed hundreds of same-day crowns.

Latest Technology

We use the newest CEREC system with the most advanced milling capabilities for optimal precision and aesthetics.

Comprehensive Care

If your tooth needs root canal therapy before crown placement, we can often complete both procedures and place your CEREC crown—all in one comprehensive visit.

Comfortable Environment

Our office is designed to make longer appointments comfortable, with amenities to help you relax during your crown procedure.

---

Caring for Your CEREC Crown

Whether you choose CEREC or traditional crowns, proper care ensures maximum longevity:

Daily Care:

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss daily around your crown
• Use an antimicrobial mouthwash
• Avoid chewing ice or hard objects

Regular Checkups:

• Visit us every 6 months for professional cleanings
• We'll examine your crown and surrounding gum tissue
• Early detection prevents problems

Protect Your Investment:

• Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth
• Avoid using teeth as tools
• Address any concerns promptly

With proper care, your CEREC crown can last 15+ years or longer.

---