Dental crowns are versatile restorations used to protect and enhance damaged teeth, with traditional and CEREC same-day options available. Dental bridges, on the other hand, are utilized to replace missing teeth and can be created using traditional or CEREC techniques. Our dentist can help discover best option for your specific dental needs and preferences.

Dental Crowns: Traditional and CEREC Same-Day

Dental crowns are a dental restoration used to fix weakened teeth. They are custom-made caps that cover the entire visible portion of the tooth, providing protection and improving its appearance. Two popular types of dental crowns are traditional crowns and CEREC same-day crowns.

Traditional dental crowns require multiple visits to Wheeler Family Dentistry. During the first visit, Dr. Bruce Wheeler prepares the tooth by removing a portion of its outer structure and takes impressions. A dental lab then uses the impressions to fabricate a dental crown, which can take a couple of weeks. During that time, a temporary crown is placed over your tooth and once the new crown is complete, it will be permanently added during a second appointment.

CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) same-day crowns, on the other hand, offer a convenient alternative. Using advanced CAD/CAM technology, our dentist can create and place the crown in a single visit. The tooth is digitally scanned, and the crown is milled from a block of ceramic material right in the dental office. The crown’s color is matched to your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless and aesthetically pleasing result.

Dental Bridges: Bridging the Gap

Bridges offer functional and cosmetic benefits by restoring the ability to chew properly, maintaining facial structure, and improving the appearance of your smile. They are fixed oral appliances, used to replace missing teeth in a row.

Traditional dental bridges follow a process similar to traditional crowns. The adjacent teeth are prepared by removing a portion of their enamel, impressions are taken, and the bridge is fabricated in a dental lab. Once completed, the bridge is fixed to the teeth, providing a stable and permanent solution.

CEREC same-day bridges are also available, offering the advantage of efficiency and convenience. Using the same CAD/CAM technology mentioned earlier, the bridge can be designed, milled and placed in a single dental visit. This eliminates the need for temporary restorations and multiple appointments, providing a faster and more streamlined experience for patients.

Interested in learning more about dental crowns and bridges in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and surrounding areas? Call our office at 336-659-7700 to schedule a consultation.