Step-by-Step: What to Expect From the Dental Crown Procedure

Ever wonder what happens when you get a dental crown? It’s a simple procedure that restores a damaged or weakened tooth, bringing back its strength and appearance. The process usually takes two visits—one to prepare the tooth and another to place the final crown. Being aware of the process can ease your mind. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown.

Step 1: Initial Consultation and Examination

Before you commit to a dental crown, your dentist in St Cloud, MN, will need to evaluate your tooth to determine if it’s the right treatment. This step ensures that your tooth is in good enough condition to support a crown and helps rule out any other dental concerns.

Here’s what happens during your consultation:

• Your dentist will ask about any pain, sensitivity, or cosmetic concerns you have.
• X-rays or digital scans are taken to check the tooth’s health.
• The dentist will check for decay, fractures, or signs of infection.
• If a crown is needed, you’ll discuss material options, such as porcelain, metal, or zirconia.

If a tooth has extensive damage or infection, a root canal might be needed as a preparatory step before placing the crown. If everything looks good, your dentist will schedule your next visit for the preparation phase.

Step 2: Tooth Preparation

Now that you’ve decided to get a crown, the real work begins. The dentist will adjust the shape of your tooth to ensure the crown fits securely.

• First, the area is numbed with local anesthesia, ensuring you stay comfortable throughout the procedure.
• The dentist trims and reshapes the tooth, removing any decayed or weakened portions.
• If your tooth has significant damage, a filling can help restore its structure.
• The aim is to establish a stable support so the crown stays in place correctly.

This step is crucial because a well-prepared tooth ensures the longevity and stability of the crown. After the reshaping process, it’s time to take impressions.

Step 3: Taking Impressions for a Custom Fit

For your crown to blend in seamlessly with your natural teeth, it needs to be an exact fit. That’s where impressions come in.

• A mold or digital scan is taken to capture the precise shape of your tooth.
• This ensures that the crown aligns perfectly with your bite.
• The impressions are forwarded to a dental lab, where a custom crown is crafted.

Since creating a custom crown takes time, your dentist in 56301 will place a temporary crown over your tooth. This temporary crown safeguards the tooth while you wait for the permanent one.

Caring for Your Temporary Crown

• Avoid chewing hard or too sticky foods that could dislodge it.
• Brush gently and avoid flossing around the area to prevent pulling it off.
• If it feels loose or falls out, contact your dentist immediately.

Temporary crowns aren’t as durable as permanent ones, but they serve as a protective cover until your next appointment.

Step 4: Crafting the Permanent Crown

Your permanent crown isn’t something that comes off the shelf—it’s custom-made just for you. With precision, the dental lab customizes it to align with the exact color, shape, and size of your natural teeth.

• The crown is made from strong materials like porcelain, zirconia, or metal.
• The process takes about two weeks, though some offices offer same-day crowns with CEREC technology.
• Your dentist makes sure that the new crown will blend seamlessly with your other teeth.

While waiting for your permanent crown, stick to soft foods and be extra careful with the temporary one. Once your custom crown is ready, you’ll return to the office for the final step.

Step 5: Final Placement and Fitting

This is the moment you’ve been waiting for—your new crown is ready to be placed! Here’s how the process unfolds:

• The temporary crown is removed carefully.
• Your dentist checks the permanent crown’s fit, shape, and color.
• Minor adjustments may be made to ensure a comfortable bite.
• Once everything is perfect, the crown is bonded to your tooth using strong dental cement.

At this point, your tooth is fully restored. It should feel natural, allowing you to chew and speak without discomfort. If something feels off, let your dentist know so they can make adjustments.

Step 6: Post-Procedure Care and Recovery

With your new dental crowns near you securely in place, it’s time to take care of them properly.

What to Expect After Placement

• You might feel some sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures for a few days.
• Mild soreness around the gums is normal but should fade quickly.
• Your bite may feel slightly different, but it should adjust within a few days.

How to Care for Your Crown

• Brush and floss daily to stop plaque accumulation.
• Avoid chewing on very hard objects such as ice or pens to prevent damage.
• Visit your dentist periodically to ensure your crown stays in great shape.

A nicely maintained crown can last 10–15 years or more! If you experience any pain, sensitivity, or movement in your crown, don’t hesitate to call your dentist.

Final Thoughts

Getting a dental crown is a simple and effective way to restore a damaged tooth. The process may seem detailed, but each step ensures a durable, natural-looking result. By following your dentist’s recommendations, you’ll enjoy a strong, healthy smile for years to come.

If you need a crown, schedule a consultation with Smile City today. A well-placed crown can bring back your confidence and comfort, so don’t wait to take care of your smile!