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Is Getting Dental Crowns a Painful Procedure?

Dental crowns are tooth caps that completely cover a tooth, restoring its shape, size, and strength. They are a popular alternative for both dental restorative and esthetic purposes. While dental crown operations are typically considered problematic, the amount of discomfort each individual feels varies according to their pain tolerance and oral health.

By Amelia GrantPublished about a year ago 3 min read
Is Getting Dental Crowns a Painful Procedure?

Dental crowns are tooth caps that completely cover a tooth, restoring its shape, size, and strength. They are a popular alternative for both dental restorative and esthetic purposes. While dental crown operations are typically considered problematic, the amount of discomfort each individual feels varies according to their pain tolerance and oral health.

What Happens During the Dental Crown Procedure?

There are two types of dental crown procedures: conventional and same-day crowns. Whatever treatment you pick, the dental crown implantation procedure is largely identical, with only a few but important variances. Here's a step-by-step breakdown of what to expect:

First, your dentist will check your teeth and gums. They will also use an x-ray to assess the degree of deterioration or damage. Your dentist will then create a treatment plan for you. Following the examination, the treatment will begin with a local anesthetic. This will numb both the tooth and the region surrounding it.

The injured or decaying tooth will then be ready for crown implantation. Your dentist will shape and contour your teeth by removing the enamel, clearing room for the dental crown.

After preparing your tooth, your dentist will take an imprint of it with dental putty. This will be used to make a personalized crown for you.

For same-day crowns, the 3D-printed or CAD/CAM-milled crown is produced in 60 to 90 minutes and promptly placed into your tooth. Traditional crowns normally take 2 to 3 weeks to be ready for fitting. During this period, a temporary crown will be used to preserve your prepared tooth while you wait for the permanent crown.

When the dental crown is complete, your dentist will examine the fit and bite. After making any required changes, your dentist will secure it with dental cement or a special adhesive.

Do They Numb You During the Dental Crown Procedure?

As previously said, your dentist will numb the region surrounding your teeth before proceeding with the treatment. A local anesthetic will be administered to ensure that you do not experience any discomfort throughout the process. You may feel pressure when your dentist prepares your tooth, but it should not be unpleasant.

In addition, you may experience some soreness during dental crown cementation. This normally resolves after a few days. To alleviate discomfort, your dentist may prescribe over-the-counter pain drugs as well as additional limitations.

Will I Be Put to Sleep During a Crown Procedure?

In rare circumstances, a dentist may offer sedation to assist patients relax throughout their operation. This is prevalent among individuals receiving several crowns or those experiencing dental anxiety. The type of sedation utilized will be determined by your unique needs, and options include inhaled conscious sedation, oral sedation, and intravenous (IV) sedation.

What Could Be Causing Pain After Getting a Crown?

Pain following dental crown operations can still occur for several causes, including:

- The dental crown is very high or thick

In such circumstances, the patient will perceive that only the crowned tooth contacts the opposing tooth when bitten. Excessive pressure or force will be applied to only one tooth, causing discomfort or agony;

- Sore gums

During the operation, your gums may be stretched too far or injured, resulting in discomfort and swelling;

- Trismus

This disease is caused by excessive jaw muscular contraction, which makes it difficult to open the mouth. This is generally caused by leaving the mouth open for an extended period of time, which happens frequently during the tooth preparation stage of dental crown treatment;

- Nerve injury

There is a danger of injuring the tooth's nerve, particularly if the decay or damage is extensive. This might cause chronic discomfort and may necessitate root canal therapy;

- Infection

An infection can develop if germs infiltrate the gap between the tooth and the crown, causing extreme discomfort.

What Should I Do If I Experience Prolonged Pain Following a Dental Crown Procedure?

If your tooth crown discomfort lasts longer than a week following your dental procedure, call your dentist as soon as possible. Your dentist can inspect the region to see if any underlying abnormalities require treatment. They may also offer other treatments, including root canal therapy, to help you manage your problem.

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About the Creator

Amelia Grant

I am journalist, and blogger.

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