Cerec ~ Dental restorations made by using Computer Technology (CAD/CAM)

The CEREC method is a chairside CAD/CAM restorative procedure.

The dentist examines the tooth and determines the appropriate treatment. It could be a simple filling, an in-lay or a full crown, depending on how much healthy tooth structure is remaining. Then an optical impression of the prepared tooth is taken using a camera. Next, the specific software takes the digital picture and converts it into a 3D virtual model on the computer screen. After that, the restoration design data are sent to a separate milling machine in the office. A ceramic block that matches the tooth shade is placed in the milling machine. About 10-20 minutes later, an all-ceramic, tooth-colored restoration is finished and ready to bond in place