Today's Dental Health: Growing Achievement

By Dr. Arestea Kakaris



When the visible portion of the tooth becomes so decayed or damaged that replacement is required, the dentist will fabricate a "crown" to restore functionality to the tooth. Traditionally, this procedure has involved removing the tooth's damaged crown, taking an impression (upon which the new crown will be constructed), fitting a temporary crown, and cementing the permanent crown in place. Recent CAD/CAM technology (computer-aided design/manufacturing technology) has made it possible to bypass the impression-making step. It allows for the creation of a permanent crown by using a computerized image to create a restoration through a milling chamber that cuts the tooth-like ceramic material into a precise replica of the image. When this procedure is done in-office, no impression is necessary.

As material and equipment manufacturers continually introduce new and innovative products that further advance this fabrication method, all participants in the dental treatment process-laboratory, dentist, and ultimately, the patient, continue to benefit.

This column is brought to you in the interest of better dental health. At KAKARIS FAMILY DENTISTRY, you can expect us to give you gentle comforting care, using the most up-to-date dental techniques and equipment. We're located at 21080 Allen Road, Woodhaven, where we offer almost any type of dental treatment you might need. Please call 888-318-9931 to schedule an appointment.

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