What is CEREC®
CEREC® is an innovative technology used in dentistry to offer single-day restorations for patients. The acronym stands for “Chairside Economical Restorations of Esthetic Ceramic”. It utilizes computer-assisted design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) to create tooth restorations, such as crowns and veneers, in a single visit.
Traditionally, patients would need to visit the dentist for the preparation of the restoration, then wait for a dental laboratory to manufacture the restoration, and then visit the dentist again for the fitting and placement of the restoration. However, with CEREC®, this process can be completed in one sitting, saving time and reducing the need for multiple appointments.
During the CEREC® procedure, the dentist takes digital impressions of the tooth, which are used to create a 3D virtual model. The dentist then uses CAD technology to design the restoration, which is then milled by CAM technology from a block of ceramic material. Once the restoration is complete, the dentist can bond it to the tooth, restoring its natural beauty, strength, and function.
One of the benefits of CEREC® restorations is that they are metal-free and tooth-colored, providing a more natural look and feel than traditional restorations. CEREC® restorations are also highly durable and long-lasting.
Overall, CEREC® technology allows patients to receive high-quality restorations in a single visit, saving time and providing convenience. Satterfield Family Dental is proud to offer this advanced technology to their patients, ensuring they receive the best care and treatment available.
CEREC® uses CAD-CAM technology to design and mill custom restorations during one visit to the dentist. So how does this process work?
Before you get started, your dentist will determine if CEREC® is right for you. Depending on how much healthy tooth structure you have remaining, it may be a simple filling or you may need a crown. After reviewing your options, the dentist will begin the process by administering anesthetic and preparing your tooth for restoration by removing decay and weakened tooth tissue.
In order to make the desired restoration, a 3-dimensional image of the tooth that needs to be restored must be created from a digital camera scan of the tooth. This three-dimensional image will be used to create the restoration without the need to take a messy impression. This means no horrible tasting impression material for you to gag on. The computer and CEREC® 3D software then converts the digital image into a three-dimensional virtual model of the prepared tooth.
This device is used to used to create the custom restoration needed for the tooth. Based on the original color of your tooth, the dentist is able to select the correct colored ceramic block and in a few minutes, the milling device is able to create the restoration needed.
After the restoration is made, it is ready to be tried on to ensure that you get proper fit and bite. When it is ready, the restoration is polished and bonded into place by your dentist. Therefore, no temporary restoration is needed and no return trip is necessary, saving you time and money.
Satterfield Family Dentistry
125 Powell Mill Rd
Spartanburg, SC 29301
(864) 574-0394
M-Th 8:00am – 12:00pm
1:00pm – 5:00pm
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Dr. Bryan Satterfield is a native of Spartanburg, SC. He attended Presbyterian College and received a Bachelor of Arts and minor in Chemistry. He then attended the Medical University of South Carolina Dental School and earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine in 2003.
Dr. Bryan is a past President of the Spartanburg County Dental Society and currently a member of the South Carolina Dental Association and American Dental Association. He takes many hours of continuing dental education courses each year, striving to provide the highest quality of dental care.
Dr. Bryan met his wife, Susan, in Charleston as they both studied at MUSC. They married in 2005 and have two beautiful daughters, Sylvie and Maeve. He enjoys spending time with his girls and experiencing live music. He also loves to run, practice yoga and play guitar.