Yes. A CEREC crown is milled from a solid block of high-quality dental ceramic, the same class of strong, tooth-colored material used in premium lab-made restorations. Because it is milled as one solid, uniform piece, it holds up well to everyday chewing and normal bite forces.

This is not a new or experimental technique. Clinical research spanning more than 20 years shows CEREC restorations performing on par with traditional lab-fabricated crowns for both longevity and function. With consistent home care and regular checkups, your same-day crown is built to serve you for many years.

From the moment your tooth is prepared to the final bonding, a typical CEREC appointment runs about one hour. That single window covers the digital scan, the on-screen design of your restoration, the in-office milling, and permanent placement.

Because it all happens under one roof in one sitting, there is no waiting weeks for an outside lab and no second appointment to arrange. A more involved case can occasionally take a little longer, and Dr. Raffi will tell you what to expect before your same-day crown treatment begins.

In most cases, yes. Because a CEREC crown meets the same clinical standards as a conventional crown, dental plans generally cover it the same way, based on your individual policy and any annual maximum. We confirm exactly how your plan applies before any work begins.

Before treatment starts at our Chicago office, we verify your coverage and give you a clear cost estimate, so there are no surprises at checkout. If you are paying out of pocket or would like to spread the cost over time, our financing page lays out the payment options we offer for same-day crowns.

CEREC handles the great majority of everyday crown restorations beautifully, and it is an excellent fit for most damaged, cracked, or heavily decayed teeth that need full coverage.

A handful of cases call for a different approach. Very large bridges, teeth that require unusual preparation, or restorations with demanding esthetic requirements may be better served by a traditional lab-fabricated crown. Dr. Raffi examines your tooth first and recommends the option that will give you the strongest, longest-lasting result.

The finished restoration is essentially the same either way: a strong, natural-looking ceramic crown that blends with your smile. Where the two methods part ways is in how you get there.

A traditional crown relies on an impression that is shipped to an outside dental lab. You wear a temporary crown for two to three weeks, then come back for a second appointment to have the permanent one cemented. With CEREC, the design and milling happen chairside during a single visit, so there is no lab wait, no temporary to manage, and no follow-up trip.