If your dentist has recommended a dental crown, you might be feeling a little nervous about what comes next. After all, the idea of having a tooth prepared and covered with a restoration can sound intimidating if you’ve never experienced the procedure before.
Fortunately, getting a dental crown shouldn’t be painful. Your dentist will use local anesthesia to keep you comfortable during treatment, although you may notice some temporary soreness or sensitivity afterward. Here’s what you can expect throughout the process.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made restoration that fits over a damaged or weakened tooth. It helps restore the tooth’s shape, strength, and appearance while protecting it from further damage.
Your dentist may recommend a crown if you have a tooth with extensive decay, a large filling, a crack, or damage following root canal treatment. Crowns can also improve the appearance of certain teeth, depending on your needs.
By covering and supporting the affected tooth, a crown can help you chew comfortably and preserve your natural smile.
Does Getting a Dental Crown Hurt?
The crown procedure itself should not be painful because your dentist will numb the affected tooth and surrounding area with local anesthesia. You may feel pressure or vibration while the tooth is being prepared, but you shouldn’t feel sharp pain.
If you do experience discomfort during treatment, let your dentist know right away. They can check your comfort and provide additional anesthetic if needed.
Once the tooth has been prepared, your dentist will take impressions or digital scans to create a crown that fits your bite. A temporary crown may be placed while your permanent restoration is being made, depending on the treatment approach.
When your final crown is ready, your dentist will check its fit and bite before securing it in place.
What About Pain After Getting a Crown?
It’s normal to experience some mild sensitivity or soreness after crown placement. Your tooth may temporarily react to hot or cold foods and drinks, and the surrounding gums might feel tender.
These symptoms typically improve as your mouth adjusts to the restoration. In the meantime, consider eating softer foods, avoiding temperature extremes if your tooth feels sensitive, and gently brushing and flossing around the crown.
An over-the-counter pain reliever may help if you can safely take it. Follow the product instructions and ask your dentist or pharmacist if you’re unsure which medication is appropriate.
Contact your dentist if pain is severe, persists, worsens, or occurs when biting down. A crown that feels too high or a tooth with an underlying problem may need further attention.
What Happens If You Delay Getting a Crown?
If you’re nervous about discomfort, putting off treatment might seem tempting. However, delaying a necessary crown can allow the original problem to worsen.
A weakened tooth may crack further, while untreated decay can progress deeper into the tooth. In some cases, this can lead to significant pain, infection, or the need for more extensive treatment, such as a root canal or extraction.
Getting a recommended crown promptly can help protect your tooth before the damage becomes more serious.
Protect Your Smile With Confidence
Getting a dental crown is usually much more comfortable than many people expect, and treating a damaged tooth early can help prevent bigger problems later. If you have questions or concerns, talk with your dentist so you can feel informed and prepared.
About the Practice
Crossroads Family Dentistry in Virginia provides comprehensive dental care, including dental crowns, to help patients restore and protect damaged teeth. The dental team works with patients to identify appropriate treatment options and support their long-term oral health. C
Call us at 434-841-1704 or schedule your appointment online