Is Getting a Dental Crown Painful?

Are you in need of a dental crown? A dental crown is a protective “cap” that is placed over the chewing surface of a damaged tooth to keep it safe and improve its appearance. They can be placed on a tooth that is broken, decayed, contains a large filling, or a tooth that is otherwise compromised. Dental crowns are also made to replace teeth that are missing. One question that may be lingering is whether or not the procedure will be painful? Read on to learn more about what you can expect when you undergo your procedure as well as some of the benefits of the restoration.

Does Getting a Dental Crown Hurt?

When you head to the dental office to get a dental crown, your dentist will numb the area with a local anesthetic, so you should be feeling any pain throughout the duration of the treatment. The anesthetic will wear off gradually, so you won’t regain feeling of the area for several hours. Ultimately, you should be comfortable during your procedure.

Because your tooth is adjusted during the crown placement, you might experience some tenderness in the area for a couple weeks as your nerves respond to anatomical changes. An over-the-counter pain reliever is typically all you would need to manage any mild sensitivity during this time. Because dental crowns protect damaged teeth, they can actually help to relieve pain and sensitivity that you have been experiencing.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns have many advantages. Here are just a handful of them:

• Relieves Pain: If you have a tooth that has been damaged by decay or an injury, you are much more likely to experience pain or discomfort when it’s exposed to outside temperatures or pressure. Dental crowns cover and protect the tooth from these sensations and therefore reduce overall discomfort of a trouble tooth.
• Improved Appearance: Crowns are able to improve the appearance of teeth by correcting discoloration, staining, chips, misshapen teeth, and other cosmetic dental issues. They are customized to be the exact size, shape, and color needed to blend in with the rest of your smile.
• Quick Process: Having a dental crown placed only takes a few weeks. It is a pretty simple and painless procedure.

If you need a dental crown, you don’t have anything to worry about. With modern dental technology, you will be back to your busy schedule in no time!

About the Author

Dr. Ukti Phadnis earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine from the UConn School of Dental Medicine and has taken numerous continuing education courses to keep her knowledge and skills sharp. She has completed advanced training focused on dental implants, TMJ therapy, cosmetic dentistry, and Invisalign. To learn more about dental crowns or to schedule an appointment at her office in West Hartford, visit her website or call (860) 236-4249.