Dental crowns are a common dental procedure, often utilized to strengthen and protect a tooth that has been damaged or weakened. They can also be used for cosmetic purposes to improve the appearance of a tooth.
With advancements in dental technology and methods, patients may wonder if getting a dental crown will cause them pain.
The process of getting a dental crown involves first preparing the tooth by removing any decay and reshaping the tooth to accept the crown. Then, an impression is taken, and a temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth while the permanent crown is fabricated. Finally, the permanent crown is cemented into place during a follow-up appointment.
Throughout this procedure, local anesthesia is typically used to ensure the patient's comfort and minimize pain.
While some discomfort or sensitivity may be experienced after the dental crown placement, this is usually temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Overall, the process of getting a dental crown should not be painful when handled by a skilled and experienced dental professional.
Does Getting a Dental Crown Hurt?
Dental crowns are a common dental procedure to restore and protect damaged teeth. One of the common questions regarding dental crowns is whether the procedure is painful. In general, the process of getting a dental crown should not be painful other than the initial “poke” of the numbing, as your dentist will use local anesthesia to numb the area before starting.
There are a few steps involved in the dental crown procedure. Initially, the dentist will assess the condition of the tooth and take necessary x-rays. After confirming that a crown is required, they will then prepare the tooth by removing any decay and reshaping its structure to ensure a proper fit for the crown.
Once the tooth is prepared, the dentist takes an impression of the tooth and its neighboring teeth. Then a temporary crown is placed over the prepared tooth until the permanent crown can be made and fitted. While the temporary crown is in place, some sensitivity to hot and cold may be experienced, but it is usually minimal and temporary.
When the permanent crown is ready, the dentist will remove the temporary crown, clean the area, and cement the permanent crown onto the tooth. Although the area may be sensitive after the dental crown procedure, this sensitivity should subside within a few days as the tooth and gum tissue become accustomed to the new crown.
It is important to maintain good oral hygiene and schedule regular dental checkups to ensure the long-term success of a dental crown. In the case of any discomfort or pain, contact your dentist for a follow-up appointment. They will check the crown's fit, make necessary adjustments, and ensure there are no underlying issues.
Ultimately, the process of getting a dental crown is designed to minimize discomfort and be a relatively pain-free experience. With local anesthesia, your dentist will ensure that the procedure is completed efficiently and effectively, resulting in a healthier and stronger tooth.
Procedure of Getting a Dental Crown
Exam and Preparation
The process of getting a dental crown begins with an examination and preparation of the affected tooth. A dentist will assess the tooth's condition, take X-rays, and determine the best course of action. If a dental crown is deemed necessary, they will then prepare the tooth by removing any decay or damaged parts of the tooth.
During the preparation stage, a local anesthetic is often administered to numb the area and minimize pain. Your dentist will then shape the tooth, ensuring it can accommodate the crown by removing a thin layer of enamel from the tooth surface. Impressions of the tooth and neighboring teeth are taken, which are then forwarded to a dental lab where the crown will be manufactured.
Crown Placement
Once the dental crown is ready, another appointment is scheduled for crown placement. The dentist may numb the area with a local anesthetic, but often this step is not necessary. They will then thoroughly clean the tooth, removing any plaque or debris to ensure a proper fit.
The dentist carefully positions the dental crown, checking for fit and alignment with the surrounding teeth. If required, they will make minor adjustments to the crown's shape or size. Once satisfied, the dentist applies a strong dental cement to bond the crown in place.
The procedure typically causes minimal discomfort, and most patients can expect a pain-free experience. However, some post-procedure sensitivity may occur and should subside within a few days.
Pain Management Techniques
Local Anesthesia
Local anesthesia is the most common method of pain management when getting a dental crown. It is administered by the dentist through an injection in the area surrounding the tooth. The purpose is to numb the nerves that transmit pain signals. This method comes with minimal side effects and is often sufficient for most patients undergoing the dental crown procedure.
Often, topical numbing agents may be applied to the gums before the injection is given. This helps reduce discomfort from the needle. After the anesthesia is administered and the numbness takes effect, the patient shouldn't feel any pain during the dental crown procedure.
Sedation Dentistry
For patients who experience anxiety or fear of dental procedures, sedation dentistry may be an option. This involves the use of medications to help reduce pain or discomfort and to allow the patient to relax during the dental crown procedure. There are different levels of sedation dentistry, including:
Minimal sedation: The patient is awake and conscious but relaxed. This may involve the use of nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, which is inhaled through a mask.
Moderate sedation: The patient is conscious, but their speech may be slurred and memories of the procedure may be limited. Oral sedatives or medications administered through an IV may be used for moderate sedation.
Deep sedation: The patient is on the edge of consciousness and may not be easily awakened. This level of sedation is typically achieved through intravenous (IV) medications.
Sedation dentistry requires additional training and certifications for dentists. Patients should discuss their concerns and preferences with their dentist to determine the most appropriate pain management technique for their dental crown procedure. In the vast majority of cases, local anesthetic is the only necessary pain management measure.
Post-Procedure Care
Dietary Restrictions
After receiving a dental crown, it is essential to follow some dietary restrictions to ensure proper healing and prevent any damage to the newly placed crown. Patients should:
Avoid eating hard or crunchy foods for the first 24 hours.
Steer clear of sticky or chewy foods that might dislodge the crown.
Consume soft foods like soups, yogurt, and mashed potatoes during the initial healing day..
Gradually reintroduce solid foods after a day, paying close attention to any discomfort or sensitivity.
Oral Hygiene
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial to the long-term success of a dental crown. To promote the health of the crowned tooth and surrounding gums, patients should:
Brush gently but thoroughly: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean the crown and surrounding area, taking care not to apply excessive pressure on the crown.
Floss carefully: Carefully floss around the crown, slightly easing the floss between the teeth and gums to remove debris.
Mouthwash use: Rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash can help keep bacteria in check and support the overall oral health.
Regular dental check-ups: Schedule routine dental appointments for professional cleanings and examinations, ensuring the crown remains in good condition.
Final Thoughts
In the process of getting a dental crown, it is common for patients to wonder if the procedure is painful. The good news is that the discomfort experienced during the procedure is generally minimal. Dentists prioritize the comfort of their patients and employ local anesthesia to manage pain effectively and ensure a smooth experience.
Nevertheless, patients may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity after the anesthesia wears off. This is a temporary condition that can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers, as recommended by the dentist. By following the dentist's aftercare instructions, patients can ensure a successful recovery and adaptation to their new dental crown.
Dental crowns provide numerous benefits, including the restoration of damaged teeth, protection from further damage, and the improvement of a patient's overall oral health. With proper care and maintenance, dental crowns can last for many years, prolonging the life of the treated tooth and contributing to a better quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my crown hurt when I put pressure on it?
It is not uncommon to experience some discomfort or sensitivity when biting down on a newly placed dental crown. This can be due to the tooth's nerves not fully adjusting to the new restoration, or the crown may be slightly higher than the surrounding teeth. In most cases, the pain should subside within a few days. If it persists, consult your dentist to ensure the crown is properly fitted and aligned.
What should I expect during the crown procedure?
During the dental crown procedure, the dentist will first numb the area surrounding the affected tooth. They will then shape the tooth by removing some enamel to create space for the crown. After shaping, an impression of the prepared tooth is made to guide the creation of the crown. While the permanent crown is being fabricated, a temporary crown will be placed to protect the prepared tooth. Once the permanent crown is ready, the temporary crown is removed, and the permanent one is cemented in place.
Is numbing used during permanent crown placement?
In most cases, numbing is unnecessary for the placement of a crown. Occasionally, numbing is used during the permanent crown placement to ensure the patient's comfort. The dentist will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area surrounding the tooth receiving the crown. This helps to minimize any discomfort or pain during the procedure.
Does getting a temporary crown cause pain?
Getting a temporary crown generally causes little to no pain. Since the tooth is already prepared and numbed for the procedure, placing the temporary crown should not cause additional discomfort. However, some sensitivity or mild discomfort may be experienced after the anesthetic wears off. This should resolve within a few days as the tooth and gums adjust to the temporary crown.
Can you eat after a crown procedure?
It is best to wait until the local anesthetic wears off before eating to avoid accidentally biting your cheek or tongue. Once the numbness subsides, you can eat, but it is advisable to avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods for the first few days, especially when wearing a temporary crown. Stick to soft foods and chew on the opposite side of your mouth to prevent any damage to the temporary crown.
How long does tooth preparation for a crown take?
Tooth preparation for a dental crown typically takes about one to two hours. This time may vary depending on the complexity of the tooth's structure and the need for additional dental work, such as a root canal or filling. The crown fabrication process can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the type of crown and the dental lab creating it. Once the permanent crown is ready, the placement appointment usually takes about an hour.
* Though the author of this post is a licensed dentist in the state of Kansas, this information is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Please use your best judgment and contact emergency medical services in the event of an emergency.