Steven Hernandez Yes, it's true. Love seeing something like this on the schedule; 18-MO, 19-MOD, 20-MOD, 21-DO. Why? CEREC. Prior to having my CEREC system, a quadrant of CL II direct composites was not cause for celebration. Why? Because I would be tied-down to one operatory, start-to-finish, unable to do another/more profitable (and fun!) procedure. Sorry, but tinkering with matrix bands, wedges and clamps doesn't excite me. And sometimes, despite my best efforts, I'd remove a matrix band and find a void or open contact or...
With CEREC, my attitude (and how I approach the case) has completely changed. Let's look at a recent case:
Carmen presented with failing amalgams and interproximal decay in the LLQ; #18-MO, 20-MOD, 21-DO
My workflow with CEREC is fast, predicable and results in better restorations that I can provide by hand. In this case, I designated #18 & 20 as BIOCOPY restorations using the 3M MZ100 blocks. These blocks are resin, not porcelain. And unlike a composite that I place in my office, these are already polymerized; no shrinkage. The result, better fit and longer lasting.
I delivered anesthesia and captured BIOCOPY images.
I prepared both #18 and #20...initial designs.
Only small changes were required before both designs were complete. To leverage my time while the restorations were milling, I prepared #21. Once #18 & #20 were seated, I built the contact against #20.
Take Homes:
1. Don't forget about the MZ100 blocks. I find them useful for fillings, tempoary crowns, etc.
2. If you have an EDDA and your state allows it, have them mill/deliver the restorations.
3. CEREC allows you to leverage your time. While the restorations are being designed/milled, you're free to perform other dentistry.
