When it comes to getting any dental treatment, you might be worried about the expected pain that may follow. This can be especially true if you are getting a dental crown soon. The damaged or decayed tooth will need to have enamel removed, but will the procedure hurt? To help you feel confident getting this service, here is what you need to know about both the traditional and same-day versions.
Does Getting a Dental Crown Hurt?
Whether you are getting a standard or CEREC crown, there are some preparations that are needed. Your dentist will take off a small amount of enamel from the affected tooth on all sides. This will help ensure your results fit seamlessly, and it’s typically not painful. This is thanks to powerful local anesthesia that numbs the area, so you don’t feel much. If anything, it might not hurt, but you may feel pressure.
If you are getting a traditional restoration, then you will get impressions taken, and they’ll get sent to a dental lab. Here, skilled artisans will craft your final crown, but it will take a couple of weeks. In the meantime, you’ll be fitted with a temporary one until then.
Same-day ones will also need an impression, but your dentist will make a 3D model of your crown afterward. They will adjust it as necessary and then send that blueprint to an in-house milling machine. Your permanent crown will be sculpted out of a block of ceramic and will be ready for placement right after.
How Can I Manage Any Discomfort After My Procedure?
After you get your temporary or final restoration, you’ll likely feel sore. This is expected, but it should go away over the next couple of days. To give yourself some relief sooner, you can:
- Avoid hot, cold, sticky, and hard foods for the first several days after your procedure.
- Rinse with warm salt water to soothe any inflammation.
- Brush with a soft-bristle toothbrush to remove bacteria and plaque.
- Take over-the-counter medications as directed on the bottle.
Should I Call My Dentist About My Discomfort
Minor discomfort is expected, but there are a few instances where you should call your dentist. If you notice that it’s lingering or worsening, then there may be something awry. Keep an eye out for signs of infection, like redness and swelling, or if you have trouble biting and chewing with your crown. Getting a follow-up visit can help ensure your results are comfortable and give you a stronger smile in the end. That way, you feel confident showing your results off for years to come.
About the Author
Dr. Wael Kassem earned his dental degree from Temple University. He has nearly 15 years of experience, which he uses to give the Williamstown community the high-quality care they deserve. By using state-of-the-art technology, Dr. Kassem can restore damaged or decayed teeth with traditional or same-day crowns. Ensuring each one is customized per patient, you can trust that your results look natural and feel great.
If you have any questions about this treatment, schedule an appointment or call Dr. Kassem’s office at (856) 818-9998.