Does It Hurt to Get a Dental Crown?

Have you recently learned that you need a dental crown? If you have never undergone this process before, you might be a bit apprehensive about the road ahead. There is no need to worry. Dr. Thomas and our team try to make the experience as easy as possible. In this blog post, you will learn about the crown process and what you can expect it to feel like.

The Dental Crown Process

Getting a dental crown usually takes at least two appointments. During the first visit, Dr. Thomas and our team will prepare your tooth, which usually means that we must remove a small layer of enamel so that the crown will fit comfortably. This step is performed with local anesthetic to numb the area. We also offer sedation options for particularly nervous or sensitive patients. Indeed, you should feel little to nothing during this stage of treatment!

After the tooth is shaped, we will take detailed impressions of it so your crown can be designed to fit your mouth perfectly. You will receive a temporary crown to protect your tooth while the permanent crown is being crafted in a dental lab. You might feel an increase in dental sensitivity for a few days after this appointment.

The second appointment involves removing the temporary crown and placing the permanent one. Dr. Thomas will check its fit and color, then bond the crown to your tooth using dental cement. Most patients feel only mild pressure during this step. You may notice some renewed sensitivity once the anesthesia wears off, but most people find the overall process surprisingly easy.

Managing the temporary crown:

Here are some steps you can take to minimize any discomfort you may experience while in the temporary crown

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid irritating the area around the crown.
• Avoid extremely hot, cold, sticky, or hard foods for a few days after the procedure. Your diet should consistent mostly of mild foods that are easy to chew.
• If your gums feel tender, rinsing with warm salt water can help soothe inflammation.
• While you still have to floss, you must be careful around the temporary crown

When to Call for Help

It is important to monitor how your mouth feels after receiving a dental crown. While minor sensitivity is common, certain symptoms, including the following, should prompt you to contact Dr. Thomas and our team:

• Pain that intensifies or does not improve after a few days.
• Pressure on chewing
• Swelling, redness, or signs of infection

If you experience any such problems, our team can evaluate the situation and provide treatment to get things back on track.

Getting a dental crown can cause a degree of discomfort, but it can protect your oral health and ultimately spare you from future pain!

Meet the Practice

Dr. Preetha Thomas is a highly accomplished holistic dentist in Southlake, TX. She and our team proudly provide crowns made of durable and aesthetically pleasing non-metal materials. If you are curious about the crown process or would like additional information about our practice, contact Enclave Dental at 817-912-1218.