No matter what dental treatment someone is getting, they may be worried about pain they’ll experience during it. You may also be concerned about discomfort, particularly if you are getting a crown soon. To help soothe your nerves, you should learn more about what you can expect during this procedure, so here’s all you need to know to feel confident getting it for your smile.
What Should I Expect When Getting a Crown?
A dental crown is done within two appointments; the first is preparing your enamel. Your dentist will need to remove a small amount of it on all sides of the tooth being treated. You might worry about pain during this part, but powerful local anesthetics and dental sedation help make it easier. Instead of outright pain, you may feel some pressure instead.
When this step is done, you will have impressions taken that will be sent to a dental lab. Here, a skilled artisan will sculpt your crown out of high-quality materials and make sure it’s perfect for you. This process takes a couple of weeks, so you will have a temporary restoration bonded on in the meantime.
How Can I Manage Any Discomfort I Have?
Immediately after your first visit, you may not feel much of anything. The local anesthetic and sedation need a bit to get out of your system, but once they do, you may notice minor discomfort and sensitivity. This is normal, but it should progressively go away. Once you get your final crown placed, then you may go through this slight pain again, but here are tips to get you relief sooner:
- Avoid hot, cold, sticky, and hard foods for several days.
- Rinse with warm salt water to soothe any inflammation.
- Take over-the-counter medication; be sure to follow the instructions on the label.
- Clean your restoration with a soft-bristle toothbrush.
When Should I Call My Dentist About Any Pain?
Although some minor pain is expected, there are some instances where it’s a sign of something else. You should call your dentist if you notice:
- Worsening and lingering discomfort.
- Signs of infection, such as swelling or redness.
- Trouble chewing and biting.
Letting your provider take a look can ensure the crown’s fit is perfect and that there isn’t anything else going on. If you aren’t sure whether you should call, it’s better just to pick up the phone. That way, you feel confident knowing your results will leave you feeling your best.
About the Author
Dr. Brandon Jewell earned his dental degree from Meharry Dental School. He is happy to offer crowns to the Spring Hill community, giving them a reliable option to restore damaged teeth. While you may be nervous about this procedure, Dr. Jewell uses state-of-the-art instruments and conscious sedation (when needed) to make the entire process easier and more comfortable. If you want to know how he can make your visit smoother, schedule an appointment or call his office at (615) 302-1414.