The Process of Receiving Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are a common procedure dentists use to restore damaged or decayed teeth. Crowns are tooth-shaped caps the dentist places over a damaged tooth, restoring its strength, shape, and overall function. The process of receiving a dental crown typically involves two appointments. This article will discuss the process of receiving dental crowns in detail so that you know what to expect before beginning the process.

The 4-step dental crown process

Step 1: Consultation and examination

The first step to any dental procedure is to schedule a consultation and determine candidacy. During this appointment, the dentist will order an X-ray and perform a physical examination to determine the true extent of the damage. After their examination, they will determine if a dental crown is the most effective treatment for the patient’s oral condition. If so, they will detail the dental crown process, allowing the patient time to consider their weekly schedule and cost accommodations before scheduling the first official appointment.

Step 2: Preparing the tooth

Once patients decide to proceed to their first dental crown appointment, the dentist will begin preparing the tooth that needs the crown. This involves removing decay or loose damage from the tooth and shaping it to fit the crown. The dentist will numb the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic to ensure the patient is comfortable and alert throughout the procedure.

Step 3: Taking impressions

After the tooth preparation, the dentist will take an impression of the tooth and surrounding teeth. The impression will be sent to an off-site dental lab, where the crown will be custom-made to fit the patient’s tooth. Meanwhile, the patient will end their first appointment by being fitted with a temporary crown to protect their natural tooth.

Step 4: Fitting the permanent crown

Once we receive the permanent dental crown from the dental lab (about two weeks later), patients will return for their final appointment. The dentist will remove the temporary crown and place the permanent one over the previously prepared tooth. Next, the dentist will check the fit and make any necessary adjustments to ensure the dental crown fits comfortably and securely. After determining a perfect fit, the dentist will cement the crown in place.

Caring for dental crowns

After the crown placement, the dentist will provide instructions on caring for the crown and maintaining good oral hygiene. Following the first 24 hours, patients should avoid hard or sticky foods that could damage the crown, as well as flossing between the crown and adjacent teeth, as the cement still needs time to settle fully. After the first 24 hours, there will be no diet restrictions, but patients must brush their teeth twice a day and floss at least once daily. In addition, the dentist will likely recommend an alcohol-free mouthwash to reduce the chances of wearing down the dental crown material. Patients must remain diligent in these instructions if they wish for their dental crowns to last upwards of 15 years.