When I Get My Dental Crown, What Should I Expect?
Deciding to receive a dental crown is an excellent choice when it comes to a final solution or your tooth restoration. Though this is a standard procedure performed thousands of times a year, you may still be a little nervous about what to expect for your treatment.
Knowing what to expect before your dental crown procedure will not only ease feelings of anxiety but allow for you to prepare for post care regimens required for a quick and successful recovery.
Different Reasons for a Dental Crown
The process of your dental crown will vary based on the reason for your treatment. Patients who typically receive dental crowns are restoring teeth:
- Damaged by decay
- Broken due to trauma
- Affected by root canal therapy
- Containing large fillings
- Lacking in appearance due to shape, size, or shade
- Missing and requiring a dental implant
Materials Used for Dental Crown
Your dental crown will be constructed using materials most suitable for your situation. Typically, crowns are composed of porcelain, ceramic, resin, and in some cases stainless steel. Crowns made for cosmetic purposes are constructed using porcelain or ceramic, for a durable product, easily shaped and tinted to match desired looks.
Pros and cons exist for each material available for viewing through the American Dental Association (ADA). Discussing the goals for your smile with your dentist will help determine the best material to achieve the results you are looking for.
Installation of Dental Crown
The installation process for a dental crown is typically completed within two appointments.
- First Appointment: Your dentist will examine the tooth where the crown is to be placed to test its durability to withstand the treatment. The tooth will be prepared down to specific dimensions as an anchor to support the crown. If the tooth is damaged or broken, a filling will need to be placed for the crown to properly be secured to the tooth. Impressions of the tooth are then made when the desired shape is achieved for the lab to use in creating your crown. To protect the tooth while you are waiting for the completion of your permanent crown, your dentist or their assistant will place a temporary crown to be removed later on.
- Final Appointment: Your provider will schedule your appointment for when your permanent crown is ready for bonding. The temporary crown will be removed from your tooth, allowing for the dentist to check the fit of the final crown before cementing it in place. A strong dental adhesive is used to bond the crown to the tooth to ensure a final hold.
Post Care for Dental Crowns
Adjusting to your new dental crown can take some patience. The crown may not feel natural at first but will become more comfortable as times goes on. Your dentist may recommend a diet restriction depending on your situation, just to make sure the crown is securely bonded. If you are experiencing pain or swelling in the area where your crown was placed, you should contact your dentist immediately to address these concerns.
Though the process may differ from patient to patient, the result of installing a dental crown is the same- a long-lasting, beautiful tooth restoration. For more questions on what the process may look like for your dental crown procedure, contact your dentist for a consultation to determine the best treatment plan for your smile.
Baer Dental Designs is an award winning general/cosmetic dentist located in Lone Tree. Contact Dr. Baer to learn Learn more about Baer Dental Dental Crowns.
Read More About The Different Types of Crowns That Are Available. Learn More.