If your dentist has recommended a dental crown, it’s normal to be a touch apprehensive. You may be wondering what happens before the crown is placed. A crown is designed to cover and protect a damaged or weakened tooth while restoring its shape, appearance, and function. Preparing the tooth is an important part of making sure the crown fits properly and provides long-lasting protection.
Here’s what you can generally expect during the preparation process.
Your Dentist Will Examine the Tooth
Before preparing your tooth, your dentist will evaluate its overall condition. They may take X-rays to check the tooth’s roots, surrounding bone, and the extent of any decay or damage.
If the tooth has significant decay, an infection, or another underlying problem, it may need to be treated before the crown can be placed. In some cases, a severely damaged or infected tooth may require root canal treatment first.
Your dentist will also discuss the type of crown that’s appropriate for your situation.
The Tooth Will Be Numbed
Your dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the tooth and surrounding tissues before beginning the preparation. This helps keep you comfortable throughout the procedure.
If you’re particularly anxious about dental treatment, let your dentist know before your appointment. They may be able to discuss additional ways to help you feel more relaxed, like sedation dentistry.
Some Tooth Structure Will Be Removed
For a traditional crown, your dentist needs to reshape the tooth so the crown can fit securely over it. This typically involves removing a small amount of enamel and tooth structure from around the tooth.
The amount removed depends on factors such as the type of crown being used and how much natural tooth structure needs to be preserved.
If the tooth is significantly damaged, your dentist may need to rebuild portions of it with a filling material before shaping it for the crown. This creates a strong foundation for the restoration.
An Impression or Digital Scan Will Be Taken
Once the tooth has been prepared, your dentist needs an accurate representation of your teeth. Depending on the practice, this may involve traditional dental impressions or a digital scan.
The information is used to design and manufacture your custom crown so it fits properly with your surrounding teeth and bite.
You’ll Receive a Temporary Crown When Necessary
If your permanent crown isn’t ready the same day, your dentist may place a temporary crown to protect the prepared tooth. Follow your dentist’s instructions for caring for it, particularly when eating.
Some practices offer same-day crowns using digital technology, allowing certain patients to have their permanent restoration designed and placed during one appointment. Other dentists take impressions then send away for a lab to manufacture the crown.
Dental crown preparation is a carefully planned process designed to protect your tooth and create a stable foundation for your new restoration. While some sensitivity or tenderness may occur afterward, significant or worsening pain should be reported to your dentist. If you have questions about your upcoming crown procedure, don’t hesitate to ask your dentist what to expect.
About the Practice
For more than 30 years, the professionals at Distinctive Dentistry in Dallas, GA have provided beautiful, customized dental crowns to their patients. If you have a decayed or damaged tooth that needs repairing, schedule an appointment via our website or call our team at (770) 445-6606.
