General Dentistry in Thunder Bay, ON

CEREC CAD/CAM Crowns in Thunder Bay, ON

CEREC CAD/CAM is a computer system that designs and shapes dental restorations right in our office, using a digital scan of your tooth instead of a molded impression. Dr. Ameen uses it for crowns and other restorations where it fits your treatment.

What Is CEREC CAD/CAM?

CEREC stands for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics. It’s a computer system that designs and shapes dental restorations, like crowns, inlays, and onlays, using a digital scan of your tooth rather than a tray of impression putty. A small wand takes images inside your mouth and builds a 3D model of your tooth on screen. Dr. Ameen uses that model to design the restoration, and a separate milling unit shapes it from a solid block of ceramic material.

What It Can Help With

Dr. Ameen uses CEREC CAD/CAM for a range of restorative needs.

Crowns

A full cap placed over a tooth that’s cracked, worn down, or weakened by a large filling.

Inlays and Onlays

A restoration that fits into or over part of a tooth when a filling alone isn’t enough, but a full crown isn’t needed.

Some Veneers

A thin shell placed over the front of a tooth, depending on what the tooth needs.

What Happens During Your Visit

Here’s what a typical CEREC appointment looks like.

Preparing the Tooth

Dr. Ameen numbs the area and shapes the tooth to make room for the restoration, the same first step used for a traditional crown.

Digital Scanning

A small wand captures images of your tooth, which build into a 3D model on screen.

Designing and Milling

Dr. Ameen designs the restoration on the model, then a milling unit shapes it from a block of ceramic material.

Fitting and Bonding

Dr. Ameen checks the fit, adjusts it as needed, and bonds the finished restoration to your tooth.

Caring for Your Restoration

Brush and floss around it just like the rest of your teeth
Your gums or tooth may feel sensitive for a short time after your appointment
Avoid biting down on very hard foods, like ice, with the new restoration
Keep up with regular check-ups so Dr. Ameen can monitor it over time

Is This Right for You?

CEREC CAD/CAM may be part of your treatment plan if any of the following apply.

A Cracked or Worn Tooth

A tooth that needs a crown, inlay, or onlay to restore its shape and function.

Difficulty With Impression Trays

Patients who find a tray of impression putty uncomfortable may prefer a digital scan instead.

A Restoration Suited to Milled Ceramic

Dr. Ameen confirms whether your specific tooth and restoration type are a fit for this approach.

Understanding Cost and Insurance

Billing for a CEREC restoration depends on the tooth being treated and the type of restoration involved, so Dr. Ameen’s team gives you an exact quote before your appointment. That quoted fee covers the full cost of the restoration and applies the same way to every patient regardless of insurance coverage. Our front desk reviews your specific insurance benefits before your appointment so you know what to expect.

A Quote Before You Start

You’ll know the cost of your restoration before your appointment is booked.

Insurance Coordination

We check your specific benefits ahead of time so you know what your plan covers.

Coverage Can Vary

Whether a crown or restoration is covered often depends on your plan, so we confirm this with your provider directly.

CEREC CAD/CAM FAQs

A computer system that designs and shapes restorations using a digital scan of your tooth. It replaces the tray of impression putty used for some traditional restorations.

What is CEREC CAD/CAM?

A computer system that designs and shapes restorations using a digital scan of your tooth. It replaces the tray of impression putty used for some traditional restorations.

Does CEREC mean I get my crown in one visit?

In many cases, yes. Because the restoration is designed and milled in our office, some crowns can be completed in a single appointment instead of requiring a temporary crown and a second visit. Dr. Ameen will confirm whether this applies to your tooth.

Does the digital scan replace the impression putty?

Yes, for CEREC restorations. A small wand takes digital images of your tooth, which builds a 3D model on screen instead of using a tray of putty.

What material is used for a CEREC restoration?

CEREC restorations are milled from a solid block of ceramic material. Dr. Ameen selects the specific block based on the tooth being restored and where it sits in your mouth.

Is getting a CEREC crown uncomfortable?

The appointment involves the same steps as a traditional crown. This includes numbing the area before any shaping of the tooth. Dr. Ameen will walk you through each step.

Ready for a healthier smile?

New patients welcome. Direct billing to most insurance plans.

Redwood Dental has been serving families across Thunder Bay and Northwestern Ontario for over two decades.