Have you been told that you need a dental crown to restore a compromised tooth? These protective tooth-colored caps can strengthen the structure and improve the appearance of pearly whites that have been decayed, broken, or otherwise damaged. However, you might be wondering if the process is painful. Keep reading to learn what you should expect throughout your procedure and the benefits you can look forward to.
Does It Hurt to Get a Dental Crown?
Once you’ve arrived for your scheduled treatment, your dentist will first completely numb your mouth with a local anesthetic. This will ensure that you are pain-free during the entire process. While the medication will wear off over time, you shouldn’t regain feeling in the area until several hours after your procedure.
Since your affected tooth will be modified (such as removing damaged/decayed enamel or reshaping the structure to fit the crown properly) during the placement portion of the treatment, you may feel some sensitivity or tenderness in the area for a few weeks. This will be due to your nerve endings responding to the anatomical changes. Fortunately, this can easily be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Your dental crown is designed to protect a compromised tooth, so it can also help alleviate any discomfort and sensitivity in the long run.
What Are the Advantages of Getting Dental Crowns?
By getting dental crowns to cover compromised pearly whites, you can do much more than strengthen their structure. Here are a few benefits you can expect to enjoy from your treatment:
- Enhanced appearance: Other than protecting and strengthening a decayed or damaged tooth, a dental crown can also improve dental flaws such as chips, stains, and irregular shapes. Your dentist can personalize the cap to fit the size, shape, and color that can blend seamlessly with the rest of your smile.
- Pain relief: You’re more likely to feel pain if you have a damaged or decayed tooth that’s exposed to extreme temperatures or excessive pressure. A dental crown can prevent these sensations and reduce overall discomfort by covering and protecting it.
- Long-lasting results: With proper care, you can expect to enjoy a strong and comfortable dental crown for about 10 years or more before needing to adjust or replace it.
Now that you know what you can expect from your dental crown treatment, you should feel more confident about restoring a tooth while remaining comfortable and pain-free. Speak with your dentist if you’re interested, and you’ll be one step closer to enjoying a strong and healthy smile again!
About the Author
Dr. Mike Asay earned his dental doctorate from the Baylor College of Dentistry. He’s also a member of several organizations like the American Dental Association and the Capital Area Dental Society, and he regularly pursues continuing education to refine his skills and techniques. He offers a wide variety of high-quality services, including dental crowns. If you’d like to schedule a consultation, visit his website or call 512-244-2796.