Molar Crowns: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: The Tooth is Examined

First, your dentist inspects the molar and usually takes an x-ray. This step helps your dentist understand how much healthy tooth is left and the condition of the nerve inside the tooth. For example, if the tooth has a deep infection, that needs to be treated before we put the crown on the tooth.

Why the X-ray Matters

You can’t see everything just by looking, and a molar could look normal on the outside while having cavities inside where an old filling is located.

Step 2: The Molar is Prepared

Next, your dentist prepares the molar for the crown. The dentist will numb the area around the tooth, and then proceed to shaving off the damaged portions and shaping the remaining tooth material. This process is much less scary than it sounds!

Your dentist is taking away the rough parts and leaving you with a molar that has a little home waiting just for your new tooth crown.

Step 3: A Temporary Crown is Put On

Your dentist will take an imprint or use a digital scanner to capture the structure of your molar. They will use this mold or digital information to send to the lab or software that will construct your permanent crown. During the waiting period for your permanent crown, you will wear a temporary crown that will allow you to eat normally without damaging the prepared molar.

Step 4: A Permanent Crown is Created

When your permanent crown is ready, you return to the dentist. The temporary crown is removed, and the new crown is placed over the molar so that the dentist can make sure that the fit is right. At this step, the following details are very important:

• The color of the crown should match the rest of your teeth, especially if the crown is going to show when you are smiling.

• It is very important that the crown fits your bite just right (not too high). If your bite hits the crown too hard, let your dentist know so they can make the necessary adjustments.

• The edges of the crown should fit tightly against the tooth to prevent food from getting trapped between the crown and the tooth.

Step 5: You’ll Need to Get Used to Your New Crown

Your new molar may feel strange, and your tongue will probably do a lot of exploring. These feelings will go away after some time as you adjust to your new bite and your new crown feels more normal.

It is important that you keep brushing and flossing like usual. Although the crown itself cannot decay, the tooth underneath and around the edges of the crown needs to remain clean and protected.

If you experience continued pain, discomfort, or sensitivity, or if your crown becomes loose or causes significant swelling in your gums, contact your dentist. Your dentist should examine the crown to see if they might need to make some adjustments.

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