For the fabrication of new dental restorations, we use the innovative Cerec-3D technology here in Zurich. This technology allows us to create a digital 3D model of your dentition without taking a traditional impression. Using the 3D model, your treatment is planned with absolute precision—and with significantly less time and cost than conventional methods.
Our dentists in Zurich would be happy to inform you about the possibilities of Cerec-3D and how we can make your dental treatment even more efficient and comfortable using this innovative technology.
What is Cerec-3D?
The abbreviation Cerec stands for “ceramic reconstruction.” This refers to the high-quality all-ceramic dental restorations that we prefer to use in our practice to replace lost tooth structure in an aesthetically pleasing manner.
Cerec-3D technology is a form of CAD/CAM technology. In this computer-assisted process, impression taking, treatment planning, and the fabrication of the dental restoration are all digitally controlled.
Using an intraoral scanner, we create a 3D scan of your teeth, which is converted into a 3D model on the screen in real time. The dentist uses this model to precisely plan your dental restoration. The data is then transmitted to the grinding and milling unit, which manufactures your restoration fully automatically.
When is Cerec 3D used?
We use Cerec 3D in Zurich for a wide variety of dental treatments, but primarily for the planning and fabrication of all-ceramic restorations. This modern technology enables us to fabricate precisely fitting ceramic crowns, bridges, onlays, inlays, and veneers, as well as to plan dental implant treatments.
Furthermore, the procedure is suitable for all treatments that require an impression. Many patients find the conventional impression-taking process with impression material uncomfortable, experience a gag reflex, or even panic. The digital impression taken with the intraoral scanner is largely contact-free, so we can spare you the discomfort of a traditional impression.
How does treatment with Cerec 3D work?
The treatment consists of the 3D scan, treatment planning, and the fabrication of the dental restoration.
In the first step, both rows of teeth are fully scanned using the intraoral scanner. This procedure usually takes only a few minutes. Your dentist guides the intraoral scanner—similar to an electric toothbrush—along the rows of teeth. The system transmits the data in real time to a monitor, where the digital 3D model is immediately available.
After the scan, your dentist will review the images with you and then plan the restoration with the new dental prosthesis. The data for fabrication is transmitted directly to the grinding and milling unit. The prosthesis is manufactured fully automatically from a ceramic block. The finished dental prosthesis can be inserted immediately and adjusted by the dentist.
Are there any risks associated with Cerec 3D treatment?
Treatment with Cerec 3D technology does not involve any specific risks. For your dental restoration, we use high-quality dental ceramics that are processed with the utmost precision in a fully automated process. This allows us to reproduce even the finest structures and fabricate crowns, inlays, onlays, or veneers with an absolutely smooth surface. The risk of subsequent damage, such as chipping, is thus significantly reduced.
That said, the same risks apply as with any other dental restoration. Improper care and cleaning can lead to problems such as marginal caries. During your treatment, your dentist will explain exactly what you should keep in mind regarding your new dental restoration and how to maximize its lifespan with proper care.
FAQ
A dental restoration made with Cerec 3D is essentially no different from a conventional dental restoration. The only difference lies in the digital impression-taking, computer-aided planning, and fully automated fabrication. This means the time and effort required are significantly reduced.
Cerec-3D enables fast, convenient, and relatively cost-effective treatment. Thanks to computer-aided planning, your dental restoration can be fabricated in Zurich with absolute precision. Another major advantage for patients is the comfortable scanning process, which does not require traditional impression material.
The scanning process usually takes only a few minutes. The images are transferred to the Cerec user interface in real time, so your dentist can discuss them with you right away.
Unlike conventional impression-taking, the 3D scan is largely non-contact and does not require impression material. As a result, the entire procedure is painless and does not cause any discomfort.
A dental restoration created using 3D scanning will last just as long as a conventional ceramic restoration, provided it is properly planned and treated. Depending on the type of restoration, the stress it is subjected to, and how well it is cared for, you can expect a high-quality all-ceramic restoration to last for many years.