When it comes to your smile, getting a crown means something entirely different than it does if you’re a regal. But while you may not exactly be heading for a coronation, the good news is that getting a dental crown is a fairly comfortable, easy procedure. Here’s what you can expect from this “royal” dental treatment!
What to Expect During a Dental Crown Procedure
When you arrive at your dentist’s office for your new crown, the first thing your dentist will do is numb the tooth and surrounding area. This will ensure that your mouth stays comfortable during the procedure.
Next, an impression of your tooth will be made, so that your crown can be customized to blend in perfectly with the rest of your mouth.
After your impressions are made, your dentist will remove the damaged enamel from your tooth, leaving behind the remaining healthy tooth and reshaping it so your new crown will fit securely on top.
Once your tooth has been reshaped, your dentist will make a temporary crown for you to wear for the next two to three weeks while your new crown is being crafted at the dental lab. Be careful with it, as it is not attached as securely as your permanent one will be and thus it can come loose from vigorous flossing or if you eat anything too sticky or crunchy.
In approximately two to three weeks, your new crown will be delivered to your dentist’s office from the dental lab, and you will be scheduled to return to have it placed. Your dentist will remove the temporary one and attach the permanent one. You can immediately begin to use it to eat a full diet, and you should be able to resume your normal activities after you leave the office!
Important Reminders About Dental Crowns
Now that you’ve got your durable, beautiful new crown, it’s time to start using it! But before you do, remember these important tips:
- Never use your crown to chew on anything other than food. Don’t use it to tear packaging, bite your fingernails, or gnaw on pen caps.
- Brush and floss around your crown just as you would your natural teeth but be careful not to get your floss caught underneath it.
- You can use the same toothpaste and brush on your crown that you use on the rest of your smile, however it is recommended that you opt for a soft-bristled brush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Also be aware that whitening toothpaste will not work on restorations, so if it becomes discolored, reach out to your dentist for help.
With proper care and use, your new crown could last ten or more years, so be sure to be diligent about your oral hygiene, and don’t skip your regular, biannual dental exam and cleaning appointments, as these are excellent opportunities for your dentist to monitor the health of your smile and your new dental crown!
About Our Practice
At Richland Dental, we’ve been helping patients near Richardson smile since 2019. Our dentists have decades of experience providing high quality dental care to patients from age 0 to 109! If you need a dental crown, get ready for the royal treatment! Schedule an appointment with us today by visiting our website or calling us at 972-200-8006.