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A permanent crown in one visit, no temporary and no second appointment

We love having the CEREC solution in our practice because our PATIENTS love it! Why? Because before, crowns were completed in multiple visits. During the first visit, after a tooth impression was taken, a dental lab made the crown while you wore a temporary crown for a couple of weeks. CEREC crowns are completed in one visit. And, they’re not only faster, but they’re beautiful and strong too.

What is CEREC?

CEREC is an acronym for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics, or CERamic REConstruction. Translated, it means that a we can economically restore damaged teeth in a single appointment using a high-quality ceramic material that matches the natural color of other teeth.

Advantages of a same-day CEREC crown:

  • No unpleasant impression material
  • No follow-up appointments
  • No temporary crown to wear between visits

CEREC same-day crown milling unit

How does the instrument work?

CEREC uses CAD/CAM (Computer Aided Design/Computer Aided Manufacturing) technology, incorporating a camera, computer and milling machine in one instrument. A special camera is used to take an accurate picture of the damaged tooth. This optical impression is transferred and displayed on a color computer screen, where we use CAD technology to design the restoration. Then CAM takes over and automatically creates the restoration while the patient waits. Finally, we bond the new restoration to the surface of the old tooth. The whole process takes about one hour.

Prices mentioned on this page are typical ranges for planning purposes only. Your written estimate depends on the exam, X-rays and your insurance benefits, and we confirm costs with you before any treatment begins.

Guides & resources

Frequently Asked Questions

Same-day crowns at Alta Loma Dental Care typically cost $1,000 to $2,000 per tooth, the same as a traditional crown; the convenience of one-visit treatment does not cost extra. Insurance typically covers 50 to 80 percent when the crown is medically necessary. These are typical ranges; your written estimate depends on the exam, X-rays and your insurance. Financing options are available; call (909) 987-6268 for a personalized estimate.

Plan for two to three hours. We prepare the tooth, take digital scans, design the crown with CEREC technology, mill it in our office and bond it, all in one visit, with breaks during the process. There is no temporary crown and no second appointment.

Same-day crowns are completed in one two-to-three-hour visit using CEREC technology (digital scan, in-office design and milling). Traditional crowns require two visits a couple of weeks apart with a temporary crown in between. Both use high-quality ceramic or zirconia, look natural and typically last 10 to 15 years or more; same-day crowns add convenience without compromising quality. Learn more about all of our crown and bridge options.

We use local anesthesia to keep you comfortable during tooth preparation, so most patients feel pressure rather than pain. Mild sensitivity for one to two days afterward is normal and manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers. Many patients say the visit was easier than they expected.

Same-day CEREC crowns typically last 10 to 15 years or more with proper care, similar to traditional crowns. They are made from high-strength ceramic or zirconia that resists wear and staining. Longevity depends on oral hygiene, avoiding hard foods such as ice and nuts, not using your teeth as tools and regular dental visits. See our guide to caring for crowns and bridges.

Same-day crowns work for most patients who need a crown because of decay, a fracture, a large filling or a cosmetic concern. They may not be suitable for severe grinding without a nightguard, teeth with too little remaining structure, or certain bite problems. At your consultation Dr. Lee examines the tooth and recommends whether a same-day or traditional crown is the better fit.

Yes. Insurance covers same-day crowns at the same rate as traditional crowns, typically 50 to 80 percent after the deductible, when the crown is medically necessary. We verify your benefits before treatment, file claims for you and explain any out-of-pocket costs. Financing options are available; call (909) 987-6268 with any questions.