Has your dentist recommended getting a dental crown near you? This treatment can help restore the function and appearance of your teeth, whether because of a broken tooth or a cosmetic issue.
One often-asked concern is if obtaining a dental crown is uncomfortable. In this blog post, we will examine the process of receiving a dental crown and the discomfort or distress you can expect during and after the treatment.
What are Dental Crowns?
Before we go into the possible discomfort of receiving a dental crown, let’s define what a dental crown is and why you might need one. A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers a broken or weak tooth. It is intended to strengthen, shape, and function the teeth and improve their appearance.
The following are some of the most common reasons for requiring a dental crown:
- Restoration of a broken or chipped tooth.
- Covering a discoloured or misshapen tooth.
- Anchoring a dental bridge.
- Protection of a weakened tooth.
- Support for a tooth with a large filling.
The Crown Placement Process
A dental crown is normally obtained through a series of processes, beginning with an initial consultation and concluding with the crown’s implantation. What you may expect throughout the procedure is as follows:
Consultation
Your dentist in NW Calgary will examine your teeth and determine whether a crown is required. They will explain the treatment to you and might perform X-rays to determine the tooth’s condition.
Tooth Preparation
Your dentist will prepare the tooth for the crown by removing any decayed or damaged areas of the tooth. This stage is performed under local anesthetic, so you will not feel discomfort.
Impression
After the tooth has been prepared, your dentist will take an impression of it and the surrounding area. This imprint is delivered to a dental facility, which creates the personalized crown.
Temporary Crown
To protect your prepared tooth while the permanent crown is being created, your dentist will place a temporary crown over it.
Permanent Crown
You will return to the dentist to have the permanent crown placed. The temporary crown is removed, and the replacement crown is cemented on your tooth.
Is It Painful?
Many individuals wonder if having a dental crown is uncomfortable. No, it is not! During the tooth preparation, your dentist will apply a local anesthetic to minimize pain.
However, it is important to note that you might experience some sensitivity once the anesthetic wears off. It is common and usually quite moderate, but it is manageable with over-the-counter pain medicines as prescribed by your dentist near you. Some patients may experience little pressure or discomfort during the placement of the crown itself, although this is not at all severe.
Tips to Manage Pain and Discomfort
Managing pain and discomfort after a dental crown is essential for a quick recovery. While most dental crown treatments are not unpleasant, you may feel some soreness afterward. Here are some pointers to help you effectively handle pain and discomfort:
Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Follow your dentist’s instructions when taking over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil). Be sure to adhere to the recommended dosages.
Cold Compress
A cold compress applied to the outside of your cheek near the treated tooth can help to decrease inflammation and numb the area. Allow pauses in between using a cloth-wrapped ice pack for 15-20 minutes.
Soft Diet
Stick to a soft diet for the first several days after a dental crown. Avoid firm, crunchy, or sticky foods since they may dislodge or irritate the crown. Soup, yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies are all good choices.
Avoid Chewing on the Crown
Avoid chewing directly on the newly implanted crown. It can assist to avoid discomfort and ensure the crown is correctly placed.
Oral Hygiene
Maintain your normal dental hygiene practice, but be cautious around the crown. For a few days, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid forceful brushing around the crown.
Saltwater Rinse
Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater multiple times daily to help decrease inflammation and encourage healing.
Avoid Hot and Cold
Sensitive teeth are common following the implantation of a dental crown. Foods and beverages that are too hot or cold might cause pain. Instead, choose products that are lukewarm or room temperature.
Prescription Medications
If your dentist prescribed pain relievers or antibiotics, continue to take them even if you feel better.
Manage Sensitivity
If you are sensitive to hot or cold temperatures, use toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth. These toothpaste brands can help alleviate pain over time.
Contact Your Dentist
Contact your dentist immediately if you are experiencing severe or chronic pain or discomfort or if you detect any problems with the crown (such as it feeling loose). They may assess the problem and make any required changes or repairs.
Follow-Up Appointments
Attend any scheduled follow-up appointments with your dentist to check the crown is correctly fitted and your mouth is healing as anticipated.
Rest and Relaxation
Stress or strain can sometimes aggravate pain. Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation help you relax and lessen your pain perception.
Restore Your Smile with Dental Crowns
Mahogany Dental Wellness has the secret to a brighter smile. Our dental crowns are a proven solution for restoring the strength and beauty of your teeth. Whether you need to safeguard a weak tooth or improve the appearance of your smile, our team of professionals is here to offer assistance.
Visit us, and let us help you regain your confident, radiant smile! Call today!