Dental Crown Replacement: What to Expect

Your First Appointment

The dentist will examine the crown and the tooth beneath it. They may take an X-ray if there’s concern about decay or an infection around the tooth. Because the old crown has to come off, the dentist needs to make sure the remaining tooth is strong enough to support another one.

If the tooth looks healthy, things are fairly straightforward. The old crown is removed carefully, and the tooth is cleaned and prepared for its replacement.

Removing the Old Crown

You’ll usually receive local anaesthetic before the dentist starts, so the area feels numb during the procedure. The crown is then loosened and removed using dental instruments. Sometimes it comes away easily. Other times, the dentist needs to section it into smaller pieces.

That sounds worse than it feels. You’ll probably notice pressure and vibration rather than sharp pain.

Preparing for the New Crown

Once the old crown is out, your dentist checks the tooth closely. If decay has developed underneath, that needs treating before a new crown goes on. A damaged tooth may need more work too, and this is one reason replacement isn’t always completed in a single visit.

A few things are worth remembering while you’re wearing it:

• Keep chewing sensible on that side, especially if the temporary crown feels a little wobbly.

• Sticky foods deserve some caution because a temporary crown isn’t bonded in the same way as the final crown.

• If your bite feels wrong, mention it rather than hoping you’ll magically get used to it.

Getting the Permanent Crown

At the next appointment, the temporary crown is removed and the new crown is checked against your tooth. Your dentist will look at the fit and your bite before fixing it permanently.

This is the part many people find surprisingly quick. The crown is placed, adjusted if needed, and cemented into position. Once everything feels right, you can leave.

When Something Doesn’t Feel Right

A little tenderness is expected. Persistent pain isn’t something to ignore. The same goes for a crown that feels loose or a bite that suddenly seems uneven.

And don’t assume discomfort means the replacement has failed. Sometimes the tooth underneath needs attention, or the crown simply needs a small adjustment. Your dentist can work out which it is.

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