If you have already been cleared for a dental crown, you may be excited about the many benefits it offers. Your troubled tooth will finally receive the restoration it needs, allowing you to eat, chew, and smile with confidence. However, if you don’t know what to expect during the treatment, you might feel nervous about the upcoming visit. Continue reading to learn how your dentist prepares your tooth to receive a crown.
Step 1: Numbing Your Mouth and Preparation
The first step of any dental treatment is to ensure you are comfortable the entire time. You will be given a powerful local anesthetic that properly numbs your tooth. Once you give the thumbs up to start, the preparation process will begin.
Your dentist will remove any damaged or decayed parts of your tooth and then remove a small amount of enamel on the top and sides. This is to help the dental crown sit flush with your smile and not look big or feel bulky.
Since you were properly numb during this part, you shouldn’t feel outright pain. Many people say that they experienced some pressure, but not severe discomfort.
Step 2: Dental Impressions and Temporary Crown
Once your tooth is all ready, your dentist will take an impression of your dental arch. This will help the lab that creates your restoration know the right size to make it, so it sits seamlessly into your grin. Because they are meticulous about it, this process takes about two weeks before it’s finally ready.
In order to protect your tooth while you wait, your dentist will place a temporary crown. It won’t be as durable as your permanent one, so it’s important to be careful when eating to not damage it.
Step 3: Placement of The Final Dental Crown
As your dentist receives the expertly crafted crown, you will come back into the office for placement. They remove the temporary and use a stronger cement to bond the final restoration. At the end, you’ll have a renewed smile!
In just two appointments, not counting your consultation, you get a tooth that’s both functional and looks great! Modern dental equipment has made the process easier and gives long-lasting results. After you finish the treatment, by practicing proper oral hygiene, you can enjoy your crown for years to come.
About the Practice
At Brown, Reynolds, Snow, LeNoir Dentistry, our dental office is dedicated to giving you a smile that is lasting and healthy. With a team of skilled dentists, we offer a wide range of treatments that can do just that. When you come to us for dental crowns, we provide you with a restoration that is metal-free and looks very lifelike. If you have any questions about your upcoming appointment to get a crown, feel free to contact us by calling either our Patterson or Ridgefield office.