Dental Crown Preparation Pre-Treatment Checklist

Start With the Tooth Itself

Before preparing the crown the dentist will examine the tooth and the gum surrounding the tooth. An x-ray may be taken to evaluate the condition of the tooth underneath the surface. This is especially important if the tooth has received a filling or a prior treatment.

If decay, a crack or infection is discovered the plan may need to be altered before the crown is prepared. If the tooth has had a root canal the dentist will examine the tooth closely before proceeding with preparations for the crown.

The Basic Checks

• Any pain or sensitivity you have experienced recently. Even intermittent discomfort may alter the course of treatment. Give the dentist the small details.

• The gum surrounding the tooth should be healthy before beginning preparations. Any bleeding or swelling needs to be addressed not dismissed.

• And finally, an x-ray may be part of the process especially when examining the root or the bones surrounding the tooth.

Check Your Dental History

This step may feel like a formality only, however, it is an important part of the preparations for your crown. Report to the dentist any medications, allergies especially reactions to dental materials or medications you may have been exposed to previously. In addition, the dentist needs to know about any prior treatments administered to the same tooth.

Be truthful about habits that may affect the tooth. For example, grinding of the teeth at night. If you clench your jaw while sleeping the dentist may consider this when determining the shape of the crown and your bite.

Before You Sit in the Chair

• Come with your current health information close at hand. It helps to avoid the embarrassing moment of trying to recollect your thoughts about a medication as you stare at an unfamiliar label.

• If you are to receive anesthesia, eat a meal beforehand (unless instructed otherwise by the dentist) because being famished will only lengthen the miserable day.

• Communicate about grinding or tightening your jaw at night or a crowned tooth that has come off before. Everything is easy to forget once you are seated in the dental chair.

Know What Happens During Preparation

Crown preparation generally involves reshaping the tooth to provide enough room for the crown to fit. Local anesthetic is administered and so you should not experience pain, although pressure and vibration are to be expected during the procedure.

The dentist will carefully reshape the tooth and take a digital impression or an imprint of the tooth so that the dental laboratory can fabricate the crown. Depending on your condition you will leave the office with a temporary crown while the permanent one is being made.

Ask About the Details Before Agreeing

You need not be timid in your questions. It is important that you understand what type of crown is being planned and why it best suits your tooth. Inquire about possibilities if the tooth proves to be weaker than expected once it is prepared.

In addition, you should ask how long you are to keep a temporary crown and what activities you should avoid while wearing one. Your dentist will advise you according to the condition of your tooth and the material being used for the crown.

One Look Before Treatment

Before the preparations begin make sure that the intended course of treatment is clear. You need to understand which tooth is to be crowned and if a temporary crown is anticipated. If something seems unclear ask the dentist to explain before he begins the preparations for the crown.

A crown appointment flows faster when you don’t have to ask yourself what comes next. The preparations are part of the process. Being aware of the checks performed allows for less confusion about the whole procedure.

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