Dental crowns are deluxe tooth restorations designed to repair the appearance and function of teeth with large areas of damage or decay. These durable, lifelike prosthetics fit over your existing tooth like a cap and can be color matched to the rest of your teeth, so they blend in seamlessly with your smile. If your dentist has recommended a crown, you can rest assured that this safe, effective treatment will protect your existing tooth while providing full functionality. Here’s what you can expect from the treatment and recovery process!
Getting a Dental Crown
The first step in receiving your new dental crown is for your dentist to numb your mouth so you feel comfortable during the procedure. Once you’re ready, he or she will take impressions of the damaged tooth to send to the lab to create your crown. Then, they will carefully remove any areas of damage or decay from it, reshaping it so that it can accommodate your new crown, and then a second impression will be taken so your prosthetic will fit perfectly.
Next you will be fitted with a temporary crown to wear until your official restoration returns from the dental lab. This should take about two weeks. In the meantime, be sure to be very careful with your temporary prosthetic. Floss gently so as not to dislodge it, and don’t eat anything too sticky or crunchy, as it could come loose.
Once your permanent crown is ready, you will return to your dentist’s office to have the temporary one removed and the new one cemented into place. With proper care and use, it could last you ten or more years.
Dental Crown Recovery
Although your tooth will be numb during the reshaping process, you still might feel some sensitivity once the numbing wears off in a few hours. This could intensify if you drink anything too hot or too cold. Thankfully, this is usually temporary and should stop completely once the permanent crown is attached.
Should you experience any discomfort following treatment, you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever, and avoid anything that might make your teeth sensitive, such as foods that are excessively hot, cold, sticky, sweet, or acidic.
How to Care for Your New Crown
Caring for your new crown is easy. In fact, you can treat it just like you would your real teeth. Brush it twice a day, floss around it daily, and don’t forget to visit your dentist twice a year for your regular preventive exams and cleaning. It’s important to note that although your prosthetic cannot get cavities, the remaining natural tooth underneath still can, so maintaining excellent oral hygiene is imperative. Furthermore, dental crowns cannot be whitened, so if you want a brighter smile, talk to your dentist about professional whitening before having your crown made so you can have it matched to your ideal shade.
Remember, there’s no need to be worried about getting a dental crown. These beautiful, natural-looking restorations allow you to preserve your natural teeth so they look and work just like the real thing. If your dentist has recommended this treatment for you, you can rest assured that your smile is in good hands!
About Our Practice
At Today’s Family Dental, Dr. De Rosso and Dr. Maximos are here to give you the royal treatment! If you have a tooth that needs a dental crown, we’re proud to provide this smile saving treatment. To schedule your appointment for dental crowns, visit our website or call 908-689-8887.