CEREC, short for “Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics,” is an innovative technology that allows us to create precise, high-quality ceramic restorations directly in our dental practice. The CEREC system combines advanced devices: a 3D camera for digital scanning, a state-of-the-art CAD-CAM milling machine for milling the ceramic, and a specialized oven for hardening and finishing the restoration. This technology enables us to design, produce, and place a custom ceramic restoration in a single visit—delivering fast results and maximum convenience.

The CEREC technology originated in Switzerland and was developed in 1980 by pioneers Werner H. Mörmann and Marco Brandestini at the University of Zurich. The first version, known as CEREC 1, was introduced to the market by Siemens in 1987. Since then, CEREC has undergone continuous development and has been a proven method for over 40 years, offering excellent results and high patient satisfaction.

With the CEREC system, we can create various types of ceramic restorations, including:

Crowns:
To replace the entire tooth crown. There are three main types: full crowns (cover the entire tooth), partial crowns (cover only part of the tooth), or endodontic crowns (positioned within the access cavity created during root canal treatment).

Inlays and Onlays:
For reconstructing parts of the tooth crown. Inlays fill cavities, while onlays also cover the tooth cusps.

Overlays:
Similar to onlays but covering a larger area of the tooth.

Veneers:
Thin shells for the front teeth. CEREC veneers are suitable for less aesthetic-demanding cases. For highly aesthetic cases, the craftsmanship of a dental technician is required.

Bridges:
To replace missing teeth by connecting two or more teeth. Bridges can include up to 4 units in the front and premolar areas or up to 3 units in the molar region.

CEREC treatment is generally painless as we use local anesthesia similar to that used for conventional fillings. To enhance patient comfort, we use “The Wand,” a modern anesthesia device that administers the anesthetic gently and precisely. In some cases, minor gum polishing may be necessary, which could cause slight irritation. These soft tissue wounds usually heal within a few days. After treatment, the tooth might be sensitive for a few days or weeks or feel slightly different due to the altered bite.

Before the treatment, make sure to brush and floss your teeth thoroughly. Inform your dentist about any medications you’re taking and any health conditions you may have.

1. Preliminary Examination
At the beginning of the CEREC treatment, we conduct a thorough examination. This includes measuring the periodontal pockets, taking an X-ray, performing a vitality test, assessing tooth mobility, and performing a percussion test to determine the tooth’s sensitivity to pain. These steps ensure the tooth is suitable for a CEREC restoration.

2. Anesthesia and Isolation
For pain-free treatment, we use “The Wand” system, a particularly gentle method of local anesthesia. The tooth is then isolated with a rubber dam or Iso Vac to create a dry and clean working field.

3. Removal of Old Restorations
Old fillings or restorations are removed. If the margins are located too deep subgingivally, a box elevation is performed to position the margins of the new CEREC restoration further away from the gingiva. This ensures clean isolation and prevents moisture or blood from contaminating the restoration margins.

4. Tooth Preparation
The tooth is prepared for the CEREC restoration by shaping it accordingly. This may involve shortening cusps or reducing the tooth’s occlusion to optimize force distribution and minimize the risk of fractures in the remaining tooth structure.

5. Digital Scan and Bite Registration
Using the CEREC Primescan, we create a precise 3D impression of the prepared tooth, the entire upper and lower arches, and a bite registration. After the scan, we select the shade to ensure the restoration matches the surrounding teeth perfectly.

6. Designing the CEREC Restoration
The individual restoration is digitally designed and customized using the CEREC software. We ensure that there are no interferences in the occlusion and that the contact points fit snugly to guarantee a perfect fit.

7. Fabrication of the CEREC Restoration
The digitally designed restoration is milled from a ceramic block using the CEREC Primemill. This process takes only a few minutes.

8. Trial Fitting, Refinement, and Placement
The CEREC restoration is checked before placement and adjusted if necessary. It is then fired in the SpeedFire oven, glazed if needed, and conditioned. The final restoration is placed using a special composite cement. Excess cement is removed, and the restoration is carefully polished.

9. Completion and Follow-Up
After the CEREC treatment, we check the bite and take a control X-ray. A follow-up appointment after 1–2 weeks may be recommended to ensure the long-term success of the treatment.

After your CEREC treatment, the anesthesia may remain effective for some time, meaning there’s a risk of accidentally biting your cheeks or tongue. It’s recommended to wait until the numbness has fully worn off before eating or drinking. Additionally, fluoride is applied to remineralize any demineralized areas. Avoid eating or drinking for at least one hour after the procedure.

On average, a CEREC crown lasts between 5 to 10 years. With good care and maintenance, they can last even longer.

The cost of a CEREC crown is approximately CHF 1,500, whereas a conventional crown may cost around CHF 2,500. These figures are estimates and can vary based on individual circumstances. Additional treatments such as root canals, gingivoplasty/gingivectomy, or gum conditioning may increase the cost.

CEREC restorations are suitable for most patients requiring tooth reconstruction. Your dentist will carry out a thorough examination to determine if this method is appropriate for your specific dental needs.

In our practice, we use the latest models from the CEREC range: CEREC Primescan, Primemill, and SpeedFire. Our materials come exclusively from top-tier, well-researched, and clinically proven companies like Ivoclar, GC, Dentsply Sirona, Kuraray Noritake, and others.