What Is CEREC? (And Why Does it Matter?)

Categories: Articles, Bridges, CEREC, Crowns, General Dentistry, NewsAuthor: admin

At our holistic dental practice in Encinitas, we use the latest and most technologically advanced equipment. Part of our advanced “tool set” is Sirona’s new CEREC AC unit (as well as the new milling unit). While that may just sound like a fancy way to increase prices, it’s actually much more (and in fact, this unit has allowed us to reduce some of our prices).

So what is CEREC? How can CEREC help you, the patient? Why should you choose a CEREC doctor? I’ll try to answer those questions and more, below.

WHAT IS CEREC?
CEREC stands for Ceramic Reconstruction and is a sophisticated system of designing and making high quality, metal-free dental restorations in one patient visit. Developed by Sirona, CEREC utilizes 3D photography and CAD/CAM technology to assist a dentist in designing a virtual restoration (onlay, inlay, crown, or bridge) without taking impressions and, when combined with a milling unit, is able to build the actual restoration while you are still in the chair.

The computer system and camera in the CEREC AC unit have been upgraded substantially from prior units, allowing even a new user to create near perfect restorations on a routine basis.

After being a “CEREC” doctor for almost a decade, I understand the value of what CEREC brings to a practice and a patient. That’s why we recently upgraded to the latest and greatest machine, the CEREC AC. This machine allows us to take digital impressions for restorations (no more gagging on impressions!) and make precise restorations that look excellent, fit perfectly, and last a long time — all out of biocompatible, metal-free materials and all in very little time (a typical crown appointment lasts less than 2 hours, and you don’t need to come back to finish the work… it’s all done in one visit).

HOW YOU BENEFIT:
By upgrading our CEREC machine, we are able to do same-day restorations on almost all procedures (you can have a complete crown done in under two hours, in one visit), including inlays, onlays, crowns, and even some bridges, often at a lower cost to you. Restorations look outstanding, last a long time, and are biocompatible and metal-free. Fewer visits and a lower cost… that’s a pretty good benefit!

HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOU NEED A CEREC RESTORATION?
If you have been told you need a new crown, inlay, onlay or bridge, you may be a CEREC candidate. If you have a cracked tooth, old failing restorations, or otherwise large damage on your teeth, you may be a CEREC candidate. If you are interested in replacing old metal restorations with biocompatible restorations, you might be a CEREC candidate. Essentially, any large restoration in your mouth may be a possible candidate for a CEREC restoration (this is NOT to say that just because you have an old crown, you need a new one… IF an old restoration needs replacing, CEREC may be a good option for you).

HOW IT WORKS:
The cavity preparation is first photographed and stored as a three dimensional digital model and proprietary software is then used to approximate the restoration shape using biogeneric comparisons to surrounding teeth. The practitioner then refines that model using 3D CAD software. When the model is complete a milling machine carves the actual restoration out of a ceramic block using diamond head cutters under computer control. When complete, the restoration is bonded to the tooth using a resin. CEREC is an acronym for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics. (courtesy http://www.cerec.net/index.php/index.html/_/news/products/what-is-cerec-r2)

HISTORY:
The system is manufactured by Sirona Dental Systems in Bensheim, Germany . 1980 Development of the CEREC method at the University of Zurich W. Mörmann, M. Brandestini). 1985 Treatment of the first patient with CEREC (University of Zurich, material: VITABLOCS Mark I). 1986 Siemens acquires the license to market and further develop the CEREC equipment. 1987 CEREC 1 is introduced (chief indication: single and dual-surface inlays; material: VITABLOCS Mark II). 1990 International CEREC Symposium at the University of Zurich. 1991 Hydraulic machining drive replaced by an electronically controlled motor. 1994 CEREC 2 is introduced (range of indications: inlays, onlays, veneers). 1996 CAD/CAM Symposium to mark a decade of CEREC (University of Zurich). 1997 Sirona was formed as the result of the sale of the Dental Division of Siemens AG. 1997 CROWN 1.0 program for producing full-ceramic posterior crowns. 1998 Second material manufacturer partnership is formed (lvoclar, ProCAD). 1998 CROWN 1.11 program for producing posterior and anterior restorations. 2000 CEREC 3 is introduced (compact Windows-based CAD/CAM system). 2000 Third material manufacturer partnership is formed (3M Paradigm MZ100). 2002 More than 2,500 CEREC users in the United States and over 5,000,000 CEREC restorations placed worldwide. 2003 3D software version is released, allowing users to see 3D views of teeth and models. 2006 CEREC Celebrates 20 Years. 2006 Sirona releases BIOGENERIC version of software. This software allows for the machine to accurately reconstruct the missing tooth shape and surface. 2007 More than 23,000 CEREC users world wide. 2008 Sirona release the MCXL milling unit, this milling unit can produce a crown in 4 mins. 2009 Sirona release CEREC Acquisition Center (AC) powered by Bluecam (courtesy http://www.cerec.net/index.php/index.html/_/news/products/what-is-cerec-r2)

THE FUTURE OF DENTISTRY:
CAD/CAM dentistry such as CEREC is the future of dentistry. Utilizing modern technology, a dentist can produce an accurate, safe, biocompatible dental crown, inlay, onlay, or bridge, in just one visit. Technological advances make the system easier to use, more accurate (so you get a better fit right away, which means great comfort and fewer adjustments later), and faster (saving you time in the chair). More dentists are turning to this new technology. Some are new to the system. Others (like us) have been using it for years. While it isn’t perfect (some adjustments will need to be made, and you still need to spend a good amount of time at the dentist), anything that saves you time and money while increasing quality and comfort is a good thing for both the patient AND the dentist.

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ABOUT: Dr. Marvin is a licensed dentist in California with more than 10 years of experience using CEREC technology. As a holistic, natural dental practice, The Center for Natural Dentistry is proud to offer CEREC services to patients who are seeking high quality, biocompatible crowns, onlays, inlays, and bridges in just one visit. To schedule an appointment or for more information, please contact us at 888-825-5351 or by completing the form at http://naturaldentistry.us/contact-us/

You and Your Dentist… Is It A Healthy Relationship?

Categories: General Dentistry, Holistic Dentistry, Mercury Toxicity, PodcastsAuthor: admin

Episode 18 of Dangers in Dentistry originally aired on KPRZ in San Diego.

Do you know how often — and to what extent — you’re exposed to highly toxic elemental mercury? From fish to your teeth, the threat of mercury in your body is completely real, and relatively preventable… find out how to protect yourself in this week’s episode of Dangers in Dentistry.

Also in this episode, Dr. Marvin and guest expert Jared Young give you the inside knowledge you need on how the practice of dentistry can impact your overall well-being. They discuss the often confusing and sometimes frustrating relationship that exists between you and your dentist. Does your dentist listen to the requests you have about your health? And that doesn’t mean just your oral health, but your entire overall body health? Did you know that too many dentists and doctors may not spend enough time educating themselves on new techniques and new research available before they approach you?

Gain a new perspective on your health and relationship with your dentist in this week’s episode of Dangers in Dentistry, with America’s Holistic Dentist, Dr. Marvin.

Enjoy!
Dr. Marvin
San Diego, Encinitas Holistic and Natural Dentist

Proper Removal Technique for Old Mercury Silver Dental Fillings

Categories: FAQ, Hot Topics, Mercury Toxicity, VideosAuthor: Dr. Marvin

As awareness of the dangers of mercury amalgam dental fillings increases, so does the number of dentists who perform mercury removal procedures. Unfortunately, this comes with risks.

Many dentists, in their haste to help people, don’t learn the proper and safe method for removing mercury silver fillings. Why does it matter? Because by not following the proper safety protocols, you could actually be in more danger when having mercury removed than you are in just leaving the fillings in your mouth.

When mercury fillings are removed, the mercury is disturbed by the drill, releasing dangerous vapors and mercury particulates in your mouth.

So how do you protect yourself? How do you know if your dentist is following the proper safety protocol when removing your old mercury amalgam fillings? Below is a quick video that should help you better understand the proper protocol (as specified by the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology’s (IAOMT)) so you can ask your dentist about it and recognize the steps he or she should be taking during your procedure.

The Alternatives to Root Canals

Categories: Articles, Dr. Marvin's Blog, encinitas dentist, FAQ, Hot Topics, News, Root Canal ControversyAuthor: Dr. Marvin

We talk a lot about the alternatives to root canals typically the only alternative mentioned is extraction of the tooth. But is that really the only alternative? Surely there must be other options, right? This was the question posed by Sean after listening to recent podcasts (Root Canals, Infections, Formaldehyde, Oh My!).

The truth is, there are other alternatives depending on the situation. We’ll try to explain it all in detail, here.

First off, if you really need a root canal, then that means the damage has gone too far and you are having serious symptoms (toothache or swelling). At that point, the healthiest option is to extract the tooth and replace it.

Root canals, however, are often recommended for the wrong reasons (such as when a dentist has exhausted or ruled out other sources or causes for tooth pain). A common incident is when the bite is off and the problem tooth is sore and causing pain. Another common example is when the gums have receded and the tooth is painful because of exposed dentin. Of course, taking out the nerve will cut sensation or feeling to the tooth, but it by no means is the source of the problem is cured.

The reason root canals are so often recommended is because many dentists don’t spend enough time diagnosing the root cause of the problem. Diagnosis is time-consuming and inefficient. For every minute a dentist spends diagnosing the source of your dental pain, he or she loses money (because that time could have been spent seeing more patients). While many dentists will dedicate the time to properly diagnose problems, far too many take the easy route and make assumptions in order to quickly provide a solution. Root canals will most often remove the cause of the pain (again, because you’ve removed the nerve), therefore, root canal therapy is often recommended.

Now, if the dentist has properly diagnosed the cause of your problems and if you really have a true need for a root canal (infection or deep cavity), then the damage is too great to reverse. The healthiest alternative to a root canal is simply to take out the infection by removing the tooth.

Does this sound barbaric when you can “save” the tooth with root canal therapy? Probably at first. But what dentists are unaware of are the links between leaving an infected tooth in the body and other systemic illnesses (such as breast cancer). It’s called the focal infection theory. A better question would be, “Would you jeopardize your health to ‘save’ a tooth?”

If you have an infection or severe decay that has caused a deep cavity and a root canal is recommended, your only two options are extraction or root canal therapy. That’s why knowledge and prevention is of utmost importance: learn how to prevent decay and the spread of tooth decay and you’ll never have to deal with a root canal.

If a root canal is recommended to you, you should definitely get a second or third opinion to confirm the true need for the procedure. Unfortunately, too many dentists do root canals for the wrong reasons and you may have other, less “barbaric” solutions if you were misdiagnosed and don’t need to undergo the procedure.

If you already have a root canal and are wondering if there’s a link with that tooth and the rest of the body, view a tooth meridian chart (we have an interactive meridian chart here: Tooth Meridian Chart) or visit a natural or holistic dentist. A lot of times, extracting the problem tooth can help alleviate or eliminate problems (not always, so again, get a second or third opinion before taking action).

The short answer to the alternatives to a root canal question is… If you really, truly need a root canal, you have only two options: root canal therapy or extraction. However, there is always the chance that you have been misdiagnosed and have many, safer, more appealing options available to you.

October Specials At The Center for Natural Dentistry in Encinitas, CA

Categories: News, Press ReleasesAuthor: jared

For Immediate Release: Discover Higher Quality Dental Care at a Recession-Proof Price!

All New Patients During October 2009 Will Receive $50 Off Their First Appointment at The Center for Natural Dentistry in Encinitas, CA (online at http://NaturalDentistry.us)

October 8, 2009 – Did you know that dentistry doesn’t have to be painful? That cavities can be filled without drilling? Did you know you can receive higher quality dental care at a lower price than what you’re used to? Did you know that — even without insurance — your dental checkups don’t have to be expensive? It’s true!

The Center for Natural Dentistry — founded by Encinitas natural dentist Dr. Marvin — is altering perceptions… and providing a special offer for all new patients: $50 off your first visit if scheduled in October 2009!

So how is The Center for Natural Dentistry different (and why should you visit)?

When you visit Dr. Marvin’s dental practice in Encinitas, CA, you won’t see a sterile, cold office. He won’t “drill first, ask questions later.” He doesn’t take needless (expensive) x-rays. He won’t rush you out of the office so he can move on to other patients. He uses the highest quality materials and the most advanced techniques with every patient.

And just because his office is inviting, his techniques advanced, and his materials the highest quality, it doesn’t mean he’s more expensive. In fact, his prices are more affordable than many other dentists’!

The bottom line: When you visit the Encinitas dental practice of Dr. Marvin you will receive higher quality care for a lower price.

So why haven’t you heard about him yet? Because The Center is a new, progressive dental practice in an old, stodgy field.

Most dentists prefer to use outdated, antiquated materials and techniques because it’s what they know. It also provides the highest profit margin. (For instance, did you know there are high and low quality filling materials and you could be receiving low quality but paying high prices? Did you know your dentist doesn’t have to take expensive x-rays every visit?)

The Center for Natural Dentistry is different. The affordable, progressive dental practice in Encinitas, CA provides a stress-free, safe, affordable, effective alternative to traditional dentistry in San Diego County.

“I definitely recommend (The Center for Natural Dentistry). It doesn’t feel like a dentist office and it’s shaping up to be the first positive dental experience I’ve ever had.”

Brian D.
Patient at The Center for Natural Dentistry

Come experience the difference. Experience The Center for Natural Dentistry, San Diego’s premier dental practice.

Special Offer: Book your first appointment in October 2009 and receive $50 off your first visit! Call 888-825-5351 to schedule your appointment today!

About The Center for Natural Dentistry:
The Center for Natural Dentistry provides safe, effective, affordable dental care to San Diego County residents. For free videos and information visit http://AmericasHolisticDentist.com or call (888) 825-5351.

Contact:
The Center for Natural Dentistry
888-825-5351

http://naturaldentistry.us/

http://AmericasHolisticDentist.com

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Download the PDF of this Holistic Dental Press Release Here: The Center for Natural Dentistry in Encinitas, CA Reveals Huge October Specials!