Fear of pain can be a strong motivator. After all, if it’s going to hurt, why would you do it? Unfortunately, however, this mindset can prevent people from getting necessary dental care, even if it means putting their smile at risk for worse damage and discomfort later. If you’ve been told you need a dental crown but are hesitant to make the appointment because you’re afraid it might be uncomfortable, there’s good news. Here’s what you can really expect from dental crown treatment, and why it’s probably a lot more comfortable than you think!
What are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are restorations used to treat teeth with large areas of damage including severe decay, cavities, or cracks. However, unlike traditional dental fillings that replace damaged areas of enamel that are removed by your dentist, crowns fit over the reshaped tooth like a cap or hat, restoring its appearance and chewing capabilities for ten to 15 years. Although they can be made of many materials, most dentists today trust ceramics because they both look and feel like real teeth.
What Happens During a Dental Crown Treatment?
Your dental crown treatment will typically span two dental appointments. During your first visit, your dentist will numb your mouth and take impressions before removing the damaged enamel. Then, the tooth will be photographed again and fitted with a temporary crown that you’ll use for about two weeks while your permanent restoration is created at the dental lab.
When your new crown arrives at your dentist’s office, you’ll return once again to have the temporary one removed and the permanent prosthetic cemented in place. With proper use and care, it could last for up to 15 years, but this will depend on a variety of factors including your oral hygiene routine, your diet, and any bad oral habits you may have.
Although you will be numbed for the first visit, most patients don’t require any anesthesia for the second appointment, but you can discuss this with your dentist if you’d like a local anesthetic. You may also benefit from dental sedation if you are anxious or afraid.
What Happens if I Don’t Get a Dental Crown?
Failing to get a dental crown may seem like a better idea if you’re afraid of discomfort, but unfortunately dental problems rarely go away on their own. In fact, if you don’t treat a tooth that needs a dental crown, it will likely get worse and may eventually need to be extracted. It would then need to be replaced, which will take even more time and cost even more money, not to mention require an additional recovery and healing process! Worse yet, if it’s infected, the infection could spread to your nearby teeth, requiring fillings, crowns, or extractions for them, too. In some extreme cases, oral infections can even spread throughout the body, and if severe enough can be life threatening!
Remember, while it’s normal to be afraid that your dental crown treatment could hurt, the good news is that your dentist’s first step will always be to numb your mouth. This means you won’t feel a thing during the procedure, and most patients experience very minimal discomfort while healing. Thus, to protect your smile and prevent future painful damage to your teeth and body, be sure to schedule your dental crown treatment as soon as possible. You’ll be glad you did!
About Dr. Kirlough
Dr. Kirlough earned his dental degree at The Ohio State University College of Dentistry in and served as a dental officer in the Navy for three years upon graduation. Since then, he has accumulated over 500 hours of continuing education and continues to stay current on the latest in dental techniques and technologies. If you’re ready to repair your smile with the help of a dental crown, don’t let fear hold you back. Dr. Kirlough and the team are standing by to restore your healthy, pain-free smile! To make your appointment, visit our website or call us today at 440-234-2445.