Dental crowns represent a cornerstone of modern restorative dentistry, with the need for restorative treatments like dental crowns increasing as you age. Dental crowns are protective caps that serve as durable shields for damaged teeth, whether you're dealing with a painful crack, recovering from a root canal, or need repair for a tooth weakened by decay.
While the thought of getting a crown might trigger some dental anxiety, understanding exactly what happens during this common dental procedure can transform uncertainty into confidence.
Read on to learn how getting a dental crown from the best dental crown dentist in Naperville offers a reliable solution that both strengthens your tooth and restores your smile.
What Is a Dental Crown and When Do You Really Need One?
A dental crown is a custom-made protective cap that fits over your damaged tooth, fully encasing it to restore its size, shape, strength, and appearance. Most dentists recommend a crown when a tooth has significant damage that can't be fixed with a simple dental filling, such as when:
- Severe decay that has weakened the tooth structure
- A crack that threatens to split the tooth
- After a root canal procedure
Crowns also serve a purpose for cosmetic dentistry by transforming discolored, misshapen, or worn teeth. Depending on your specific needs, budget, and where the crown will be placed, you can choose from various materials, including:
- Porcelain crowns and ceramic crowns, which match your natural teeth
- Durable metal like gold alloys, best for back teeth
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal options that combine strength with aesthetics
How to Prepare for Your Dental Crown Appointment
Before your crown procedure begins, your dentist will thoroughly examine your tooth and take dental X-rays to assess its condition and the surrounding bone structure. If any signs of a tooth infection or risk to the tooth's pulp are present, they may first perform a root canal treatment to remove damaged tissue.
During your initial appointment, the dentist will also reshape your tooth by filing it down to create sufficient space for the crown to fit properly. After reshaping, they'll take dental impressions of your tooth using dental putty or digital scanning technology, which will serve as the blueprint for crafting your permanent crown.
Since custom crowns typically take one to two weeks to manufacture at a dental laboratory, your dentist will place a temporary crown to protect your prepared tooth and maintain your ability to eat and speak normally while you wait for your permanent restoration.
What Happens During the Dental Crown Procedure?
Getting a dental crown usually involves two separate appointments spaced a couple of weeks apart:
- During your first visit, your dentist will administer a local anesthetic to numb the tooth and surrounding gum tissue, ensuring you remain comfortable throughout the preparation process. You'll feel pressure as your dentist reshapes the tooth and takes impressions, but the local anesthetic prevents pain.
- After preparing your tooth and placing a temporary crown, you'll return for a second appointment once your permanent crown is ready. At this follow-up visit, your dentist will remove the temporary crown, check that the permanent one fits properly, make any necessary adjustments, and then cement it securely in place.
During both appointments, you might experience some slight pressure or mild discomfort. Yet, most patients report that the procedure is generally well-tolerated and involves minimal pain.
How Long Will a Dental Crown Last?
Dental crowns are quite durable, lasting between five and 15 years on average, though many patients enjoy even longer lifespans with proper care. The longevity of your crown largely depends on the crown material and your commitment to a good oral hygiene routine. To maximize your crown's lifespan, you should:
- Maintain thorough brushing twice daily and regular flossing, paying special attention to the edges of the crown where the margin meets your natural tooth.
- Protect your investment by avoiding habits that can damage crowns, such as chewing ice, biting fingernails, opening packages with your teeth, or regularly consuming sticky candies and hard foods that place excessive force on the restoration.
- Attend regular dental checkups every six months that allow your dentist to examine your crown for early signs of wear, check that it still fits properly, and address any issues before they require complete replacement.
What to Expect After Getting a Dental Crown
After your dental crown is placed, it's completely normal to experience mild soreness and sensitivity around the treated tooth for several days, particularly along the gumline where the crown meets your natural tooth. Your tooth may also feel sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages; however, this discomfort should gradually subside.
While you can typically resume eating and drinking shortly after leaving the dental office, it's wise to stick with softer foods initially and avoid chewing directly on the crowned tooth for the first 24 to 48 hours. Give yourself time to adjust to how the new crown feels in your mouth.
Where to Find the Best Family Dentist in Naperville for Restorative Dentistry
Getting a dental crown doesn’t have to feel overwhelming, especially when you're in the hands of a team that genuinely cares. At Naperville Family Dental, we combine advanced training with a personal touch to deliver care that’s both precise and comforting.
Dr. Donald Jonker and his compassionate team are dedicated to delivering exceptional care and taking the time to understand your goals and tailor your treatment accordingly. Whether you’re restoring a damaged tooth or upgrading your smile, we use state-of-the-art technology and gentle techniques to make your experience seamless.
Our welcoming team, flexible scheduling, and dedication to long-term oral health make us a trusted choice for crowns and everything in between.
Ready to get a durable, natural-looking dental crown from the best family dentist in Naperville?
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