What You Need to Know About Getting a Dental Crown

A cracked tooth or deep cavity can turn a normal day into a painful one. But don’t worry—modern dentistry offers a reliable fix. Dental crowns restore function, protect weakened teeth, and bring back your confident smile. This blog breaks down the entire process in simple terms, hence helping you understand what to expect every step of the way.

What Is a Dental Crown?

Think of a dental crown just like a cap that covers your tooth. It mimics the shape and size of your natural tooth, offering protection and strength. When a tooth can’t hold up on its own anymore, a crown steps in to do the job.

It’s not just about saving a tooth—it’s about bringing back your ability to chew, talk, and smile with confidence.

Common Reasons Why Dental Crowns Are Recommended

Crowns aren’t only for broken teeth. Dentists recommend them in many cases, including:

• Cracks and chips: To stop further damage and ease discomfort.
• After a root canal: Now the tooth is hollowed out and fragile, so it needs support.
• Large fillings: When there’s more filling than tooth left, a crown holds everything together.
• Worn-down teeth: Grinding or acid can wear teeth over time, and crowns help rebuild them.
• Cosmetic fixes: Misshapen or discolored teeth can also benefit from crowns.

If you’ve searched for a dentist near you to fix tooth damage, chances are they’ve mentioned crowns as an option.

Types of Dental Crowns and Their Materials

Crowns can be made from different materials, and the right one depends on your tooth’s location, your bite, and how visible the tooth is when you smile.

Here are the most common types:

• Porcelain: Great for front teeth. Matches your natural tooth color well.
• Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM): Stronger than full porcelain. Good for both front and back teeth.
• Metal (gold or other alloys): Very durable. Best for back molars that do a lot of chewing.
• Zirconia: A strong, tooth-colored option. Stands up well to wear and tear.

If you’re getting a dental crown near you, your dentist will help you choose the right material based on where the crown is going and how you use that tooth every day.

Steps Involved in the Dental Crown Procedure

Getting a crown is usually a two-step process. Here’s what happens:

1. Initial visit: Your dentist checks the tooth, takes X-rays, and preps it for the crown.
2. Impressions: They capture a mold of your tooth so the crown fits right.
3. Temporary crown: This protects your tooth while the permanent one is being made.
4. Final crown: At your second visit, the new crown is fitted and cemented in place.

If you’re visiting a dentist in 84335, this process will typically be completed over two appointments, spaced a couple of weeks apart.

How do Dentists Prepare a Tooth for a Crown?

Before placing the crown, the dentist needs to shape your tooth so the crown fits over it snugly. This involves removing any damaged areas and a bit of the outer surface.

In most cases:

• Local numbing is used to keep you comfortable.
• Decay or damaged parts are taken out.
• The tooth is reshaped into a smaller size so the crown can go over it.

Looking for a dentist in Smithfield to walk you through the prep? You’re in good hands with most general dentists—they do this every day and know how to make it as smooth as possible.

Temporary Crown Placement and Its Role

Your dentist won’t leave your tooth exposed while the permanent crown is being made. A temporary crown plays an important part in protecting your tooth and maintaining function in the meantime.

Here’s what to expect:

• It’s made of acrylic or resin.
• It’s held in place with temporary cement.
• You’ll need to avoid sticky or hard foods while it’s in.
• If it feels loose, call your dentist right away.

Temporary crowns aren’t as strong as the real thing, but they do a great job while you wait.

Final Crown Fitting and Adjustment Process

Once your permanent crown arrives, your dentist will take out the temporary crown and properly check the fit.

• They’ll place the crown and see how it looks and feels.
• You’ll bite down to check the alignment.
• Small adjustments are made on the spot.
• Once everything feels right, the crown is cemented permanently.

If you’ve worked with a Smithfield dentist, they’ll make sure you leave with a crown that looks natural and feels like it belongs in your mouth.

How to Care for Your Dental Crown After Placement?

A dental crown is designed for durability; however, it still requires adequate care to maintain its condition. It should be treated with the same attention and hygiene as a natural tooth.

Daily habits to protect your crown:

• Brush gently using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Floss around the crown just like you would with any other tooth.
• Avoid making use of your teeth to open packages or bite hard candy.
• If you grind your teeth, ask about a nightguard.

If you’re not sure how to care for your crown or start noticing discomfort, connect with a trusted expert for a dental crown in Smithfield who can help you maintain lasting comfort and function.

Final Thoughts

A dental crown restores more than just your tooth—it brings back your smile, comfort, and peace of mind. Trust the team at Webber Comprehensive Dentistry to guide you through every step with care and precision. Ready to strengthen your smile? Book your consultation today and discover how the right crown can make all the difference.