First, the tooth is prepared by removing the old alloy or decay. Next, the tooth is painted with a thin layer of reflective powder and a digital photo is taken using a special camera.
The camera image is sent to the CEREC computer, where the restoration is designed with software using three-dimensional imagery. With this software, the doctors are able to view, manipulate and verify all aspects of the restoration design for accuracy and assurance of an ideal fit.
When the design is complete, a blank ceramic block is placed into the CEREC computer-automated milling machine and the process of creating the ceramic restoration begins. Minutes later, milling is complete and the finished veneer or crown is ready to be installed.