If you sustain damage to your teeth, the problem will worsen without dental intervention. Your dentist can restore the health, function, and appearance of a tooth with a dental crown. This custom ceramic cap covers a vulnerable tooth and seals into place with dental cement for long-lasting protection and enhancement.
Though you may understand the benefits of this restorative dental treatment, you might also worry about what this dental work entails. Consult with your dentist to learn more about your specific treatment. In the meantime, you can read on to find answers to frequently asked questions regarding dental crown treatment and its procedure.
Does the Dental Crown Procedure Hurt?
A common reason that people feel nervous about undergoing dental work is the anticipation of pain. You can feel more at ease in your dentist’s chair knowing that receiving a dental crown will not hurt.
The dentist will give you a local anesthetic to numb the affected area. This medicine will block nerves from sending pain signals to the brain so that you will not feel discomfort during the duration of your dental procedure. The numb feeling will wear off within a few hours.
This process applies to the shaving of some tooth enamel to make room for your crown. And you will also not feel pain when the dentist uses dental cement to secure your custom-made crown over the tooth.
You might feel some tooth sensitivity after first receiving your crown, but this symptom should fade on its own within a few days. Severe pain is abnormal, so you should let your dentist know right away if this occurs.
How Long Does the Dental Crown Process Take?
The dental crown procedure involves multiple steps over the course of three or more appointments at your dentist’s office. First, your dentist will evaluate the tooth in question to confirm this treatment is best for your unique needs. Then you will return to your dentist’s office to prepare the tooth.
The dentist will take an impression of your smile at this time in order to construct a crown that fits securely and comfortably. You will receive a temporary crown at this point. It can take two or three weeks to create your custom crown.
Then your dentist will place this permanent crown over your tooth, securing it firmly into place. Make sure you attend follow-up appointments with your dentist as directed. But take note that it will take several weeks to complete this treatment.
Do Dental Crowns Last Forever?
Though highly durable and securely adhered in place, a dental crown will not last forever. With proper care, your crown can remain over the tooth for fifteen years or longer.
To get the most out of this treatment, follow aftercare instructions from your dentist so that you do not accidentally crack or dislodge the crown. If this occurs, contact your dentist for emergency repairs or replacements. Practice good oral hygiene and attend routine teeth cleanings to ensure your crown functions as it should too.