How Dentists Prepare Teeth for Dental Crowns

Whether you’re a royal or a tooth, dental crowns play a crucial role in maintaining your smile’s health. These tooth-shaped restorations are designed to cover misshapen or severely damaged teeth, and they are commonly crafted from materials like porcelain, metal, or ceramics. The process typically spans over two appointments spaced about two weeks apart, each lasting a couple of hours. If you have a forthcoming dental crown appointment, here’s a glimpse of what you can expect during the procedure.

Tooth Preparation

The first phase begins with a thorough dental examination. The dental professional will evaluate both the tooth designated for the crown and its surrounding area. This assessment may involve the use of X-rays to provide a detailed view of the tooth’s root and the neighboring bone structure.

Afterward, a local anesthetic will be administered into the gum tissue by the dentist. Some practitioners also offer conscious sedation, which allows the patient to remain awake but in a relaxed and drowsy state throughout the procedure.

The next step in the process is tooth preparation. With the assistance of anesthesia to ensure a painless procedure, the dentist will start by removing any decayed or damaged portions from the tooth. This may create cavities that may harbor harmful bacteria. To prevent infection, the dentist will fill these voids with gutta-percha, a completely safe dental material. Finally, they will meticulously smooth the tooth to eliminate any sharp edges.

The Crown Goes On

During this stage, a temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth while the permanent one is being custom-made, typically taking around two weeks. In the subsequent appointment, the permanent crown is securely attached using specialized cement selected based on the crown’s material and placement. The dentist ensures a precise fit by evenly applying this cement and carefully removing excess.

Following the procedure, you may experience some discomfort, which can typically be alleviated with over-the-counter pain relievers. If this discomfort persists for more than two weeks, it’s advisable to inform your dentist. Patients with dental crowns should steer clear of hard or sticky foods that may pose a risk of damaging the tooth or dislodging the newly placed restoration.

Dental procedures can trigger anxiety for many people. However, gaining a clear understanding of the dental crown process can help you feel more at ease during your appointment, reducing stress-related complications and contributing to a successful procedure!

About the Practice

Based in Indianapolis and under the leadership of Dr. Corey Martinez, Martinez Dentistry is dedicated to providing individualized dental care to patients. Their wide range of services includes preventive, cosmetic, emergency, and restorative dentistry, including dental crown procedures to enhance smiles. If you wish to explore the dental crown process or wish to make an appointment with Martinez Dentistry, please visit their website or contact their office at (765) 724-7729.