Has your dentist told you that you need a crown on your tooth? Dental crowns are designed to strengthen and protect weakened teeth by completely covering them with durable yet lifelike material. However, the procedure can seem intimidating if you’ve never had it done before. One common question that patients have is, “does getting a dental crown hurt?” Keep reading to learn the answer!
Do They Numb Your Mouth for Dental Crowns?
The dental crown process takes two appointments, and your dentist will be sure to numb the area they’re working on during the first of these visits. To create enough room for the crown, they’ll need to carefully reshape the tooth. Before doing so, they’ll administer local anesthetic to that area of your mouth to ensure the procedure is completely painless. In addition to numbing your mouth, your dentist might offer sedation to make you even more comfortable.
After preparing your tooth, your dentist takes impressions of it and sends them to a dental lab. You’ll wear a temporary crown for a few weeks until it arrives at the office. At that point, you’ll return for your second visit, where the dentist removes your temporary and places your permanent crown. Usually, your mouth isn’t numbed for this, as it should be painless. However, you can always request that your dentist numb the area.
How Long Does Your Tooth Hurt After Getting a Crown?
It’s normal to feel some tenderness in the area for several days after your tooth has been prepared for a crown. After all, the shape of your tooth has been altered. The tooth might be more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures during this period. Additionally, your gums or the insides of your cheeks might be sore from where the anesthetic was injected. In most cases, an over-the-counter pain reliever should be more than enough to manage any discomfort as you recover.
Getting a Crown Now Could Prevent Tooth Pain Later
If your dentist has recommended that you receive a crown, you may be tempted to delay the procedure, especially if you’re nervous that it will hurt. However, dental crowns are actually designed to protect your tooth from future damage that could cause even worse pain. Since teeth can’t heal themselves, a broken or worn tooth will only get worse over time unless it’s fortified with a crown. Avoiding a crown when you need one could result in severe decay or infection that would warrant root canal therapy or even an extraction!
Many people are understandably worried about whether it will hurt to get a dental crown. Rest assured that your dentist will do everything they can to keep you comfortable every step of the way. If you follow their treatment guidelines, your tooth will look and feel much better before you know it!
About the Author
Since 1993, Dr. Joe Isaacson has been providing families in Oklahoma City with the expert dental care they need to enjoy healthier, brighter smiles. He earned his dental doctorate from the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry and is an active member of several professional organizations, including the Oklahoma Dental Association and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. At Joe Isaacson Dental, he offers all-porcelain dental crowns and prioritizes his patients’ comfort; he has many sedation dentistry options available as well. To learn more about dental crowns in Oklahoma City, contact Dr. Isaacson at 405-943-8575.