How Do CEREC® Crowns and Lab-Made Crowns Differ?
When it comes to restoring a damaged or decayed tooth, dental crowns can be a trusted and effective solution. They are designed to protect the tooth structure, restore function, and improve aesthetics. One of the most common decisions patients face is choosing between CEREC® same-day crowns and traditional lab-made crowns. Each offers unique benefits and is suited for different needs.
So, how do they compare? Let’s explore the key differences between CEREC® restorations and lab-made dental crowns to help you make an informed decision about your dental care.
What Are CEREC® Crowns?
CEREC® (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) crowns are made using advanced CAD/CAM (computer-aided design and manufacturing) technology. This allows dentists to design, fabricate, and place a crown all in one visit.
The process begins with a digital scan of your tooth, eliminating the need for messy impressions. The crown is then milled from a single block of ceramic and placed during the same appointment—no temporary crown or follow-up visit needed.
What Are Lab-Made Crowns?
Lab-made crowns are crafted using traditional methods that involve taking physical or digital impressions and sending them to a dental laboratory. Skilled technicians use a variety of materials—including porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM), all-ceramic, zirconia, or metal—to create the crown.
Fabrication typically takes one to two weeks. During this time, a temporary crown is worn to protect the prepared tooth.
CEREC® vs. Lab-Made Crowns: Key Differences
Speed and Convenience
- CEREC® Crowns: The biggest advantage of CEREC® dental technology is its same-day convenience. You can walk into the dental office with a damaged tooth and leave the same day with a new crown in place.
- Lab-Made Crowns: Traditional crowns usually require at least two appointments—one to prepare the tooth and take impressions, and another to place the permanent crown after the lab work is complete.
Precision and Customization
- CEREC® Crowns: Thanks to digital impressions and innovative software, CEREC® crowns are highly precise. However, they are typically made from a single block of ceramic, which may limit certain aesthetic customizations.
- Lab-Made Crowns: Lab-made crowns offer more refined customization, especially for front teeth. Dental technicians can hand-layer porcelain to match the shade, translucency, and texture of your surrounding teeth with exceptional detail.
Materials Options
- CEREC® Crowns: Most CEREC® crowns are made from strong ceramic materials, which are durable and tooth-colored but may not be suitable for all situations.
- Lab-Made Crowns: With lab-made crowns, you can choose from a wider range of materials, including ceramic, zirconia, porcelain-fused-to-metal, or full-metal crowns.
Durability and Longevity
- CEREC® Crowns: These crowns are known for their strength and can last for many years with proper care. However, because they are milled from a single ceramic block, they may be slightly more prone to chipping under heavy pressure compared to zirconia or metal-based crowns.
- Lab-Made Crowns: Depending on the material chosen, lab-made crowns can be extremely durable. For instance, stronger materials like zirconia may be especially suitable for patients with heavy bite forces or bruxism (teeth grinding).
Need for Temporary Crowns
- CEREC® Crowns: Temporary crowns are generally not needed since the final crown is placed the same day.
- Lab-Made Crowns: Since there is a waiting period for the lab to complete the crown, patients are typically advised to wear a temporary crown to protect the tooth in the meantime.
Which Type of Crown Is Right for You?
The best type of crown for you generally depends on several factors, including the location of the tooth, your aesthetic goals, bite pressure, time availability, and budget. Here are some general guidelines:
- Choose a CEREC® crown if you want a durable and faster solution for a tooth that doesn’t require highly detailed aesthetics.
- Select a lab-made crown if you’re looking for greater strength or cosmetic detail with specialized materials.
At Eastern Virginia Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, our dentists take the time to understand your unique dental needs and goals. Whether you’re considering a CEREC® or lab-made crown, we’ll help guide you through your options and recommend the best solution for long-term success.
Ready to Enhance Your Smile?
Both CEREC® and lab-made crowns offer excellent results, but they each shine in different ways. CEREC® crowns can deliver speed and convenience, while lab-made crowns provide more flexibility in materials and aesthetic detailing. Understanding the pros and cons of each can help you feel confident in your treatment plan—and one step closer to a stronger, healthier smile.
Ready to explore your crown options? Contact Eastern Virginia Family & Cosmetic Dentistry to schedule a consultation and discover the right solution for your smile.