The Royal Treatment: How Do Dentists Prepare Teeth for Crowns?

If your dentist has recommended a crown, you may be wondering what the process involves. Dental crowns are a reliable way to restore teeth that are weakened, cracked, or severely decayed. They not only improve the appearance of your smile but also protect the underlying tooth from further damage. Knowing what to expect can make your upcoming appointment feel less overwhelming.

Step 1: Numbing the Tooth

The first step in preparing a tooth for a crown is ensuring you’re comfortable. Your dentist will apply local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth. This makes the procedure virtually painless, allowing you to relax while the dentist works.

Step 2: Reshaping the Tooth

To make room for the crown, the dentist carefully reshapes the tooth. This involves removing a small amount of enamel from all sides so the crown can fit snugly and securely. The amount of reshaping depends on the type of crown being placed and the condition of the tooth. If the tooth is severely damaged or decayed, a filling material may be added to rebuild its structure before placing the crown.

Step 3: Taking Impressions

Once the tooth is properly shaped, impressions are taken to create a mold. These impressions are used to design a crown that fits precisely over your tooth and blends naturally with your surrounding teeth. Depending on the dental office, impressions may be taken with traditional putty material or digital scanning technology.

Step 4: Placing a Temporary Crown

If your crown will be made in a dental lab, your dentist will place a temporary crown to protect your tooth in the meantime. This temporary crown is usually made of acrylic or resin and is cemented with a removable adhesive so it can be easily replaced later. Temporary crowns are not as strong as permanent ones, so it’s important to avoid sticky or hard foods until your final crown is ready.

Step 5: Fitting the Permanent Crown

At your follow-up appointment, your dentist will remove the temporary crown and check the fit and color of the permanent one. Small adjustments may be made to ensure a comfortable bite and natural look. Once everything is just right, the crown is cemented in place, giving you a strong and lasting restoration.

Caring for Your New Crown

After your crown is placed, caring for it is simple. Brush and floss as you normally would, paying special attention around the gumline where plaque can build up. With good oral hygiene and regular checkups, crowns can last for many years, protecting your tooth and maintaining your smile.

Getting a crown may sound like a big procedure, but with modern techniques, the process is smooth, comfortable, and straightforward.

About the Practice

The office of Dr. Philip A. Lisk provides comprehensive restorative and cosmetic dental care designed to keep your smile healthy and confident. Our team offers high-quality dental crowns that restore both function and appearance, ensuring a natural and comfortable fit. With a focus on patient comfort and long-lasting results, Dr. Lisk and the team are here to make your crown procedure as easy and stress-free as possible.

Call us at (919) 870-6892 or request an appointment online.