Dental Crown Treatment Process Explained
The First Visit Starts With the Tooth
Your dentist will first evaluate the tooth and area in question. X-rays are often taken to confirm whether there are cavities or issues with the root of the tooth, as restoring a tooth that isn’t healthy will not resolve the issue
If there is any work that must be done before your crown can be placed, it will be done at this point in the process. Sometimes a filling is sufficient, but other times a root canal might be necessary if the tooth’s interior is infected or otherwise compromised.
Preparing the Tooth
Once the tooth is ready, it will be prepped to receive its new covering. This usually involves some reduction of the enamel surrounding the tooth, which should be relatively painless due to the anesthetic the dentist will use.
What Happens While You Wait?
If all goes well, you shouldn’t have to go home with your prepped and temporarily crowned tooth. Instead, you’ll be able to enjoy some time away while the permanent crown is being made. You may notice that the temporary crown isnt ideal, but it will protect your tooth and allow you to go about your daily life without having to think about it.
Making the Permanent Crown
Your permanent crown will be fabricated by the dental lab in a manner suitable for your mouth. You and your dentist will have picked out a shape and (if the crown will be visible when you smile) a colour that you’re happy with before this step.
Some crowns are made of ceramic or porcelain, materials that can be used to great effect on teeth that are highly visible. Crowns made of other materials may be used for teeth that aren’t used as much or need extra support, such as molars.
Fitting the Final Crown
Your dentist will then make sure your crown fits in a number of ways:
• They’ll check the colour to make sure that it blends in with the rest of your teeth, as a slightly off colour can be extremely noticeable on a front tooth.
• They’ll test your bite to see if you’re able to chew comfortably, making adjustments as necessary.
• They’ll check the edges of the crown along your gums, as a crown that constantly catches on your tongue or the inside of your cheeks is uncomfortable and ought to be adjusted.
After this, your new crown will be bonded or cemented into place. You’ll be asked to bite down a few times to make sure you can chew comfortably, and you’ll likely get a final examination from your dentist to make sure everything looks good.
After the Crown Is Fitted
Your bite may feel uncomfortable for a few days, but it should acclimate to the new sensation quickly. Most people get used to their new crown within a few weeks, and some never really notice it after the first few days.
However, if you find yourself unable to chew comfortably or notice that your new crown is hurting, dont ignore it. It’s far better to have your dentist take a look and adjust the crown than to spend days eating on one side of your mouth.
Dental Implant Services in Popular Locations
The insights shared in our articles are meant to educate and inform, not to replace a face-to-face consultation. Every smile is unique, and a proper diagnosis can only be made by a qualified clinical professional. Please book an appointment with our team or consult your local dentist for advice tailored to your specific oral health needs.