Did your dentist recently recommend you receive a dental crown in Milwaukee? This will mean your tooth will need to be reshaped to allow the cap to fit over it. You might be worried about this being painful, but you have nothing to fear. You will enjoy a natural-looking crown using the latest advancements in dentistry to keep the process virtually pain-free.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that’s placed over the entire visible structure above the gum line. It can be used to prevent a weakened tooth from breaking or to reinforce a damaged tooth, such as one that has a large cavity. Crowns are most commonly used in restorative dentistry because they can treat broken or chipped teeth; however, they can also be used along with other treatments, like a root canal or to support a bridge. Now, they also hold a commonplace in cosmetic dentistry because all-ceramic material makes them look natural, such as when covering discoloration.
What Can I Expect When Getting a Crown?
Generally, the process to receive a crown takes 2 appointments to complete after having your initial consultation. Your comfort is kept a top priority throughout the entire process.
During your first visit, a local anesthetic numbs the area, so you won’t feel anything while your dentist removes small amounts of enamel to reshape your tooth. After your tooth has been prepared, an impression of your mouth it taken to get the measurements and specifications necessary to design your restoration.
The dental lab carefully crafts your crown to meet your exact size, shape, and color needs to blend in with your natural teeth. This can take a couple of weeks, so your dentist will protect your tooth with a temporary crown. After your final restoration is sent back to the dental office, you’ll return for your second appointment to have it bonded in place.
It’s normal for your tooth to be a bit tender for a few days, but you can easily manage your discomfort using an over-the-counter pain reliever. It’s best to avoid chewing with your crown until after your discomfort subsides.
How Long Will My Crown Last?
Your crown can last for a decade or longer if you take the time to care for it:
- Brush your teeth twice a day and floss nightly.
- Wear an athletic mouthguard if you play sports.
- Don’t chew on inedible objects.
- Don’t use your teeth as tools.
- Avoid chewing anything sticky or hard with your crown.
- Visit your dentist twice a year for a cleaning and checkup.
- Treat bruxism with a mouthguard.
Restore Your Smile Today!
If you need a crown, there’s no need to fear a painful process. You’ll restore a healthy, beautiful smile using a procedure that feels no worse than receiving a filling.
About Dr. Barry R. Franzen
Dr. Barry R. Franzen earned his DDS degree from the Marquette University School of Dentistry. He went on to undergo prosthodontic training to focus on esthetic replacement teeth and implant dentistry. If you have a damaged tooth, he has the solutions you need to reinstate a functional smile. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation.