Molar Crowns: What to Expect

Why Your Molar Needs a Crown

A molar has to handle a lot of pressure every time you chew. When a tooth has been weakened by a filling or deep decay it often needs extra protection. A crown fits over the tooth. Gives it a stronger outer surface to help it last longer.

Sometimes a tooth has had a root canal treatment. After that a crown is usually recommended because the remaining tooth structure is fragile and needs support. Your dentist will examine how much healthy tooth is left to decide if a crown is the choice.

The First Appointment

You can expect some X-rays and a thorough exam before the tooth is prepared. If there is decay or an infection your dentist will treat that first. Then comes the part many people worry about. The preparation.

You’ll get an anesthetic so the area should feel numb not painful. Your dentist will remove an amount of enamel around the tooth so the crown can fit properly. You might hear the drill. You shouldn’t feel sharp pain.

What the Temporary Crown Feels Like

For the few hours your bite might feel strange. That’s normal. Usually goes away as your mouth gets used to it.

• A little tenderness around the tooth is common especially once the numbness wears off.

• Your bite should feel comfortable. If the crown feels too high when you close your teeth don’t ignore it. Tell your dentist. Trying to adapt on your own won’t help.

• Flossing around the crown takes a little care. Pulling the floss up can loosen it. Instead slide the floss out from the side. That helps keep it in place.

The Permanent Crown Appointment

The second appointment is usually much simpler. Your dentist removes the crown and checks the prepared tooth. Then the permanent crown is. Tried on to make sure the fit and bite feel just right before it’s secured in place.

After Your Crown Is Placed

Once the crown feels normal most people stop thinking about it. That’s actually the result. You can eat, chew, brush and go about your day like nothing changed.

• Give your crown some time. Your bite might feel different at first even if the fit is correct.

• Keep brushing around the crowned tooth. The crown itself won’t get a cavity. The natural tooth underneath still needs care.

• If something feels sharply wrong of just unfamiliar say something. A small adjustment can make a difference in how comfortable your tooth feels.

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