What to Expect When Getting a Crown

A tooth can lose enough structure that a filling alone would not provide reliable support. A crown surrounds the remaining tooth and helps hold it together. Crowns may also be used to improve the shape of a tooth or support another dental restoration.

Your dentist will examine the tooth and review any relevant X-rays. A topical numbing gel may be placed on the gum before local anesthetic is given. You may feel a brief pinch followed by pressure as the area becomes numb.

The dentist will remove any decay or weakened filling material and shape the tooth so the crown can fit over it. You will hear the dental handpiece and feel vibration, water and pressure, but you should not feel sharp pain. Raise your left hand if you feel discomfort or would like a break.

If a large portion of the tooth is missing, a filling material may first be used to rebuild enough structure to support the crown.

A digital scan or a traditional impression is used to record the prepared tooth and the teeth around it. A digital scanner moves around the mouth without using impression material. A traditional impression uses a tray filled with soft material that remains in place for a few minutes.

An impression tray can feel full or bulky. Breathe slowly through your nose and let us know if you need a pause.

The shade of the crown may also be selected so it blends with the surrounding teeth.

A temporary crown is usually placed to protect the tooth while the final crown is being made. Temporary cement is intentionally weaker so the crown can be removed at the next appointment.

The temporary may feel slightly different from your natural tooth. Avoid pulling on it with sticky foods, and follow the temporary-crown instructions provided at your visit.

The temporary crown is removed and the final crown is tried in. Local anesthetic may be used if the tooth or gums are sensitive.

Your dentist will check the fit, appearance, contact with the neighboring teeth and the way your teeth come together. You may be asked to bite on thin marking paper several times while adjustments are made.

Once the fit is satisfactory, the crown is cemented or bonded to the tooth. You may feel firm pressure while it is seated. Excess cement is removed and your bite is checked again.

Your mouth may remain numb for several hours. Mild gum tenderness or temperature sensitivity can occur for a short time.

After the numbness is gone, contact us if the crown feels higher than the other teeth, your bite feels uneven or biting causes pain. A minor bite adjustment is often all that is needed.

For instructions on caring for both temporary and permanent crowns, see our crown after-care page.