Do Dental Crowns Hurt? What to Expect

One popular and efficient way to repair broken or rotting teeth is with dental crowns. They help protect and reinforce a tooth weakened due to decay, injury, or previous dental procedures. While dental crowns provide numerous benefits, one common question patients often ask is whether getting a dental crown is painful. This article will guide you through what to expect during the procedure, including any potential discomfort and tips on managing it.

What Are Dental Crowns?

The cap that is placed over a tooth that has been weakened or damaged is called a dental crown. Several materials, including metal, porcelain, or a combination of the two, can be used to make it, depending on the tooth’s location and your preferences. Crowns help restore the tooth’s shape, size, and strength, making it look and function like a natural tooth. Crowns are often used to:

• Protect a weak tooth from breaking
• Restore a broken or worn-down tooth
• Cover a dental implant
• Cover a discolored or poorly shaped tooth

While dental crowns themselves do not cause pain, the process of getting one typically involves some tooth preparation, which may cause temporary discomfort.

What to Expect During the Procedure

The dental crown procedure involves several steps, including tooth preparation, impressions, and crown placement. Each step can cause varying levels of discomfort.

1.Tooth Preparation

A crown must be fashioned to fit the tooth before it can be put. This entails taking out some of the tooth’s natural structure, which may cause mild discomfort. Local anesthesia is typically used during this step to numb the area and minimize pain.

• Pain Levels: While you should not experience any pain during the tooth preparation itself, you may feel some sensitivity afterward, especially if your tooth is already sensitive or has been significantly reduced in size.

2. Impression Taking

Following the shaping process, our tooth crown dentist will take a tooth impression. A dental lab will receive this imprint which will use it to make a customized permanent crown. During this process, you might feel pressure as the impression material is applied to your teeth.

• Pain Levels: This step is generally not painful, but you may feel some discomfort or sensitivity from the pressure of the impression material on your teeth and gums.

3. Temporary Crown

While your permanent crown is being made, a temporary dental crown will be placed to protect your tooth. The temporary crown will be fitted to your tooth, and your dentist will ensure it is comfortable.

• Pain Levels: Some patients report slight discomfort or sensitivity with a temporary crown, which should not last long.

4. Placing the Permanent Crown

Your temporary teeth crown will be removed by your dentist and replaced it over your tooth when your permanent crown is ready. Before they firmly glue the crown to your tooth, they will examine the fit and make any required corrections.

• Pain Levels: The placement of the permanent crown is typically not painful, but you may feel slight sensitivity as your tooth adjusts to the new crown.

Common Sources of Discomfort During the Procedure

Although the procedure itself is designed to minimize discomfort, there are a few factors that can cause pain or sensitivity during the process:

• Gum Irritation: Placing a dental crown can irritate the gums, especially if your dentist needs extensive tooth preparation.
• Tooth Sensitivity: If your tooth is already sensitive or weakened by decay or a root canal, you may experience some sensitivity during the procedure.
• Anesthesia Effects: Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, but once it wears off, you may experience some mild discomfort or soreness around the treated area.

Managing Discomfort After the Procedure

While dental crowns do not usually cause significant pain, some mild discomfort can occur after the procedure. Here are some tips to manage post-treatment discomfort:

• Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: You may experience mild soreness or sensitivity around the treated area after the procedure. Taking over-the-counter pain relief, such as ibuprofen, can help alleviate any discomfort.
• Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: After getting a dental crown, it’s best to avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods that could irritate the area or damage the temporary crown.
• Good Oral Hygiene: Keeping the treated dental area clean is essential for avoiding infection and minimizing discomfort. Gently brush and floss around the crown and avoid putting too much pressure on the area until the tooth feels completely normal.

Long-Term Comfort and Care

Once the crown is placed, it should not cause any discomfort in the long term. The crown will fit snugly over your tooth, providing the necessary protection and functionality. However, if you experience ongoing pain, discomfort, or sensitivity after placing your crown, you must consult your dentist near you to ensure everything functions properly. Dental crowns are designed to enhance your smile and restore your tooth’s function. If you notice any discomfort or complications, your dentist can adjust the crown to ensure a proper fit and prevent further issues.

Why Choose Arte Dental & Orthodontics Lewisville?

At Arte Dental & Orthodontics Lewisville, we provide high-quality dental care that ensures comfort and effectiveness. Whether you need a dental crown or other restorative services, our team is here to make your experience as comfortable and pain-free as possible. We take the time to explain every step of the dental care process, addressing any concerns or questions you may have. Our skilled team of professionals offers various cosmetic and restorative services, including tooth crown treatments, to support your journey toward a radiant and confident smile.

Conclusion

While getting a dental crown may involve mild discomfort during the procedure, the benefits far outweigh the temporary pain. A well-fitted crown will restore your tooth’s function, comfort, and aesthetics, helping you enjoy a pain-free smile for years to come. Suppose you are considering a dentist in Lewisville, TX, for dental crowns or other restorative treatments. In that case, Arte Dental & Orthodontics Lewisville is here to guide you through the process with expert care and attention to your comfort.