Why I Use…Ceramir Crown & Bridge

Ever since my son was diagnosed with autism, I've approached my patients with a dual perspective: as a dentist and as a special needs parent. Learning about the different therapies available to help my son succeed inspired me to bring those same pathways into dentistry.

Today, treating patients with special needs and all forms of neurodiversity and neurosensitivity is where my passion lies.

Because of that, I don't judge dental products on their effectiveness or quality alone. I think, "How can I apply this to someone with sensory issues? Can I use this with patients who are noncompliant?" That mindset recently led me to a new way of using Ceramir Crown & Bridge.

Wet First, Rinse Quickly

It all started with a bridge delivery. I would etch, grab the cement, and the patient would swallow and close, so I had to start over. It got to the point where it was taking far too long. My thinking was, if your margins are clinically good, you should be able to put some Ceramir in your restoration, squeeze it down on the tooth, hold it, and then wash it all off.

Because Ceramir has no resin, there's no etching or bonding, which removes an extra step for me and saves the patient from the bitter taste of etch. It takes 2 to 3 minutes for Ceramir Crown & Bridge to set because the cement draws moisture from saliva. The problem is, we're supposed to keep the prep dry. We're keeping the mouth open, and everything is cotton-rolled, so where's the saliva coming from?

When I read about Ceramir, I thought: If moisture helps it set and start hydroxyapatite crystal formation, why not wet the tooth at the beginning? I don't mean soak it—just wet it gently with a microbrush. Then, when I seat the restoration, I don't wait for the gel phase to remove the cement.

First, I rinse within the first 60 seconds—only in an occlusal or incisal downward direction—so the restoration is crystal clear with no excess. I'm still holding the crown in place, but there's no more cleanup. Second, the moisture I just created by rinsing starts to trigger the hydroxyapatite crystal phase.

Added Bioactive Benefit

The fact that Ceramir Crown & Bridge is bioceramic is a huge help. The majority of my patients have large amounts of decay and need significant restorative treatment, so if I can use something that helps calm a nerve, it's a great option.

Home care is also a challenge for them, which is why they need restorations in the first place, so I need materials that help fight recurrent decay. Why not use one that has an added bioactive benefit?