What to Expect When Getting a Dental Crown: Is it Painful?
Going to the dentist for a dental procedure such as getting a crown can often be nerve-wracking. The thought alone of being stuck with a strange-looking device on our teeth is enough to make us shudder. You might find yourself asking: “Is it going to hurt? Will I have strange sensations in my mouth after the procedure?” You’re not alone in having these worries. Many people are apprehensive when considering treatments like dental crowns. Luckily, advancements in technology and techniques allow dentists at our Honolulu clinic to provide pain-free, comfortable experiences with minimal effects afterwards. So, if you’re wondering what exactly goes into getting dental crowns and whether or not it’s painful, keep reading.
What Is A Dental Crown?
Dental crowns are essentially tooth-shaped caps that are placed over damaged, decayed, or otherwise weakened teeth. The crowns are made and customized to fit the specific teeth, covering and protecting them while also restoring their shape, size, strength, and function. Crowns can be made from a variety of materials including ceramic, porcelain, metal, or a combination of all these materials.
Crowns are used to:
- Protect a weak tooth from breaking or further damage
- Restore a broken or severely worn tooth
- Support a tooth with a large filling
- Cover a dental implant
- Hold a dental bridge in place
The dentist will recommend the best type of crown for your specific needs based on factors such as the location of the tooth, the amount of wear and tear it undergoes, and your personal preference.
What Is The Procedure For Getting A Dental Crown?
The dental crown procedure involves at least two appointments spaced a few weeks apart. Here is what to expect during each appointment:
1. First Appointment
Examination and preparation: The dentist will examine the affected tooth and take X-rays to check the health of the tooth roots and surrounding bone. If the tooth is damaged, the dentist will remove the outer portion of the tooth to make room for the crown.
Impression: After the tooth is prepared, the dentist will make an impression to create a mold. The mold will be taken to a dental laboratory, where the permanent crown will be fabricated.
Temporary crown: Before you leave the initial consultation, the dentist will cover the prepared tooth with a temporary crown to keep it safe until the permanent crown is ready..
2. Second Appointment
Removal of the temporary crown: The dentist will do away with the temporary crown and clean the tooth.
Fitting of the permanent crown: The permanent crown’s color and fit will be examined by the dentist, who will also make any required corrections. Once the dentist is satisfied with the appearance and fit, then the crown will be permanently put into place.
Bite adjustment: The dentist may ask you to bite down on a special paper to check the contact between the crowned tooth and your opposing teeth. If necessary, the crown may be adjusted to ensure proper bite alignment.
Final polishing: Once the crown is in place, the dentist will polish it to give it a natural-looking shine.
Is Getting Dental Crowns Painful?
Getting a dental crown is not a painful procedure, as the dentist will apply local anesthesia to numb the affected tooth. You may feel a pinch or pressure during the injection of the anesthetic, but this should only last for a few seconds.
When undergoing the procedure, you will not feel any discomfort, as the tooth and surrounding tissues will be numb. However, you may feel some pressure or vibration as the dentist prepares the tooth and removes the outer portion of the tooth to make room for the crown.
After the procedure, you may experience some sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, as well as some soreness in the jaw or gums. This is normal and should subside within a few days. You can manage the discomfort by taking over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen and avoiding hard or sticky foods.
If you experience severe pain or swelling, or if your bite feels uneven after the procedure, you should contact your dentist immediately, as this may indicate a problem with the crown.
Getting a dental crown is a routine dental procedure that can help restore your oral health and confidence in your smile. By understanding what to expect during the preparation, procedure, and aftercare, you can be prepared and confident in your decision to get a dental crown(s). Remember, your dentist is there to answer any questions or concerns you may have and ensure that your treatment is a success.
