A Guide to Dental Crown Procedures

A dental crown may be needed if your tooth has sustained structural damage. Dental crowns are a standard therapeutic option for patients with a severely cracked, weakened, discolored, or misshapen tooth that they want to cover and protect. A crown may also be recommended to anchor a bridge or support an implant.

Patients should understand the process and what to expect during recovery before undergoing dental crown procedures.

The Dental Crown Procedure

While some providers offer same-day crown placement, getting a dental crown is generally performed over two dental visits.

First Visit

During the first visit, an X-ray of the tooth and jawbone will be taken to look for signs of decay or other problems that could impact the procedure. Depending on the condition of the tooth, root canal treatment may be required before getting a crown.

Next, the tooth must be reshaped to allow the crown to fit securely. Metal-based crowns are thinner, meaning less tooth structure needs to be removed. Porcelain crowns are slightly thicker, and the tooth must be filed down more to fit the crown.

If there isn’t enough tooth structure left to support a crown, filling material can be added to the tooth to build up and strengthen its structure. Once properly shaped, an impression of the shaped tooth is taken using a putty or paste.

Before the end of the first visit, you’ll need to decide what details you’d like to see with your new crown, including fit and color. Ideally, the crown should match the color of the surrounding teeth to appear natural.

Until the new crown has been created, you’ll be given a temporary crown to protect the reshaped tooth. The temporary crown will remain until the next appointment, when it will be removed and the permanent crown will be placed.

Second Visit

Once the crown is formed based on the impressions sent to the laboratory, it’s time to place the permanent crown. The crown will first be examined to ensure the correct fit and color. Some minor adjustments can be made to ensure a proper fit.

Next, a local anesthetic is administered to numb the area before fitting the crown. Dental cement is applied to the tooth to secure the crown to the tooth. Any final adjustments are then made, and the procedure is complete.

Recovery After Dental Crown Procedure

It usually takes just a few days to recover after placing a dental crown. Some patients will experience mild inflammation and sensitivity following the procedure. Warm salt water rinses performed several times throughout the day can help keep swelling minimal.

Book an Appointment with Vero Elite Dentistry

According to the Academy of General Dentistry journal, with proper care, approximately 95% of crowns will last at least five years. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, contact Vero Elite Dentistry at 772.617.2869.