Dental Cap Treatment Before and After: What to Expect

Before Dental Cap Treatment: Preparing the Tooth

Prior to commencing dental cap treatment, a dentist will examine the affected tooth and the condition of the surrounding gums. An X-ray may be taken to assess if there are any underlying issues that may need to be addressed. The dentist will attempt to ascertain if a dental cap is a suitable course of action.

It may be the case that there is a significant cavity that requires filling. Alternatively, it is possible that the tooth has cracked through years of rigorous use. In some cases, a tooth may need a cap following root canal treatment as the compromised tooth may benefit from the additional protection a cap provides.

Doing These Things Before Your Appointment Makes Sense

In order to prepare for the appointment, patients should conduct a light brushing and flossing and inform the dentist of any medications they are taking or conditions they may have that the dentist should be aware of.

If a patient is experiencing discomfort in their teeth, it is important they highlight this so that the dentist knows if they are in constant pain or only in pain when biting down or when exposed to a cold sensation.

How the Dental Cap Fits: A Treatment Overview

A dentist will file down the tooth to prepare it for the cap and take an imprint or a digital scan so that a cap that fits the bite pattern of the patient can be manufactured.

Some dental practices take impressions at the initial consultation and provide patients with a temporary cap, whereas others might require patients to return for a follow-up appointment to fit the permanent cap. This is a two-appointment procedure, although some practices might provide same-day crowns.

What to Expect After Dental Cap Fitting

After having a cap fitted, patients may feel some discomfort in the gums and may experience some sensitivity, particularly with regard to hot and cold temperatures, which should subside after a few days.

Top Tips for Living with a Dental Cap

It is important to refrain from eating very tough foods for a while, particularly if the gums are sore. It is advisable to avoid chewing on items such as ice or hard sweets with a capped tooth as the cap, although robust, is not indestructible.

Brushing and flossing should continue as normal, since the gums around the capped tooth still need to be cared for.

Furthermore, if a person feels like their bite is not right or they have a problem with the way their dental cap feels, it is important to contact the dentist as a minor adjustment can make a big difference.

Permanent Changes Following Dental Cap Fitting

Once the mouth has adjusted to the presence of the cap, it is possible to resume normal eating patterns, albeit with a slight degree of caution. A dental cap should also look natural, although this is dependent on the dentist selecting an appropriate shade and shape for the cap.

It is important to remember that a dental cap is not a guarantee that the tooth will remain completely intact. Although the cap protects the tooth, the underlying tooth matter can still be subject to decay at the edges and the cap itself can crack or come away from the tooth.

As such, it is still important to attend regular dental check-ups as the dentist cannot see beneath the cap or detect potential problems without an examination. Persistent discomfort, pain, or a soreness that does not dissipate should be brought to the attention of the dentist.

Dental Implant Services in Popular Locations

---