Do you have a cracked, chipped, or decayed tooth causing problems? If the injury isn’t too severe, your dentist can place a dental crown to restore its appearance and preserve its functionality.
However, you might avoid scheduling your procedure if you’re scared it will hurt. It’s normal to feel nervous about potentially painful procedures, but usually getting a dental crown is nothing to worry about. Continue reading to learn more about what you might expect and set your mind at ease!
What is a Dental Crown?
Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps that are cemented over damaged teeth to prevent further harm while allowing you to continue using them normally. In the past, they were made from amalgam metals, but today, your dentist will likely provide one made out of resilient ceramic. This material can be customized to resemble your natural enamel, but it is less porous than natural teeth, making it more resistant to stains and injuries.
These versatile restorations can potentially be used in several capacities, including to:
- Preserve a broken or decayed tooth.
- Shield a tooth that underwent a root canal.
- Cap a dental implant.
- Anchor a dental bridge into place.
- Rebuild a worn-down or misshapen tooth.
Does Getting a Dental Crown Hurt?
Getting a dental crown isn’t usually considered painful, but some patients develop temporary discomfort after their tooth is prepared. This is because your dentist must remove a small amount of enamel for the cover to fit correctly on top of it. They will numb the area with a local anesthetic before beginning, and might also offer sedation to help you feel calm and comfortable.
However, thinning this protective outer layer allows sensations, such as hot and cold, to travel more easily to the tender roots, which can sometimes trigger negative sensations after your appointment. It can take a couple of weeks for the dental laboratory to deliver your finished restoration, so to prevent potential aches or injuries, your dentist will likely place a temporary version over your prepared tooth until it arrives.
What If My Dental Crown Continues to Hurt?
Most patients are relieved to learn that the side effects of placing a dental crown often resolve on their own within a few days. That means if you’re experiencing persistent pain that lasts longer than a week or two, you might have developed a complication.
For instance, if bacteria re-entered your tooth before your permanent restoration was placed, the resulting infection could trigger aches. This kind of discomfort can also be caused by receding gums due to gum disease, or it might be that the cover doesn’t fit correctly.
If you experience persistent discomfort after dental crown placement, it’s time to contact your dentist to ensure you’re healing as intended!
Meet the Author
Dr. Henry Diep strives to help people from all walks of life enhance their daily experiences by improving their oral health. He earned his dental degree from Midwestern University, and today, he remains current with the latest treatment trends and technology through participation with the California Dental Association. He offers a comprehensive menu of services, including dental crowns and oral conscious sedation, to meet all your needs conveniently under one roof. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (510) 314-8426.