Crowns and Veneers

A dental crown or "cap" is often used to repair or protect a broken tooth or a tooth that has a large filling.  Veneers are thin, porcelain coverings used to improve the shape or color of teeth.

These types of restorations are traditionally made in a dental laboratory by a technician.  However, in many cases, they can be made in our dental office using a specialized CAD/CAM computer called CEREC in just a single visit!

What's the process?

The tooth is prepared or trimmed down to remove any decay or fractures and make space for the porcelain.  Next, a food grade, tasteless powder is sprayed over the tooth to allow a special camera to record a very precise image.  This image is used to create a 3-D virtual model on a computer screen right in the room.  Your new crown, veneer or porcelain filling is designed while you watch then milled out of solid porcelain in about 15-20 minutes!  The restoration is tried in, fitted, polished and bonded.  No second visit!

What's it made of?

The porcelain used for CEREC restorations is very similar in strength, wear, and texture to human enamel.  There are many different shades and translucency levels to match.  They can even be customized right in the office if needed. 

Veneers 

Veneers are thin porcelain coverings for your teeth.  They can change the color, shape, and size of your teeth for a better appearance.  Veneers can be made in a single visit with CEREC or custom made in our lab.  There are many different brands of veneers available, we'll help you decide which is right for you.