When you go to your dentist for a damaged or decayed tooth, they’ll likely recommend getting a dental crown. These are a reliable choice that bring back the look and function of your precious pearly whites. Although they are an effective treatment, you may feel nervous about getting them if you’re unsure of what to expect. Here is how your dentist will prepare your tooth to get this restoration.
Step 1: Numbing and Preparation
Your visit will start by making you as comfortable as possible. You’ll be given a local anesthetic, which will take a short while to kick in. When it does, you likely won’t feel much of anything, and your dentist will begin the treatment.
Using special instruments, they’ll remove any decay and smooth out any damage. After, they’ll take off a small amount of enamel on the top and sides of your tooth. During this part, you shouldn’t experience outright pain or severe discomfort, but rather some pressure instead.
Step 2: Impressions and Temporary Crown
Once the previous step is all finished, your provider will take a dental impression. This will get sent to a lab that will craft your crown out of a high-quality material, like porcelain. This takes about two weeks, so you’ll be fitted with a temporary restoration in the meantime.
This will help protect your tooth, but it won’t be as durable, and it’s bonded on with a weaker cement. You’ll likely be given some care instructions, so follow them to avoid having it accidentally come off.
Step 3: Final Dental Crown Placement
After your dental crown is perfected and ready, you’ll need to come back to your practice to have it placed. This time around, your dentist will remove the temporary one and bond the permanent restoration with a stronger cement. This will help it last for much longer. Better yet, it should blend in seamlessly with your smile because of the prep work beforehand! You can leave, showing off a smile that you love.
In as few as two appointments, you’ll be able to get a fixed-up tooth that looks and feels natural. While you might’ve been a bit nervous about getting this treatment beforehand, keep these steps in mind. That way, you can feel confident about getting the restoration you need to get back to a worry-free grin.
About the Practice
Dr. Alec Starostik earned his dental degree from the Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry. He is happy to help the State College community regain its bite with the help of restorative treatments like a crown. By working with a dental lab, you can trust that your results will help you feel better. If you need this service or have any other questions, schedule an appointment or call his office at (814) 826-3767.