Does Getting Dental Crowns Hurt?

Whether you’re suffering from tooth decay or you’ve recently had a root canal, dental crowns are a remarkably effective restorative procedure that can return your tooth to a near-perfect shape. Some people, however, are wary of getting the procedure for fear that the treatment will be painful. Fortunately, there isn’t anything to worry about. If you’re concerned about discomfort associated with a dental crown, here’s everything you need to know.

What Does It Take to Get a Dental Crown?

Most dental crown procedures are completed within two appointments. At your first appointment, your dentist will take an impression of your tooth and mock up a design for the crown to send to a lab. They’ll then shape your tooth to make for easy placement of your restoration. A few weeks later, you’ll return to the dentist’s office and they’ll secure the crown in place.

Will Dental Crown Placement be Painful?

Anesthetics have become incredibly powerful, and are easy to administer. Your dentist will likely numb your mouth for every single step of the dental crown process; not only will you not feel any pain, you probably won’t be feeling anything at all.

Of course, there’s also the psychological aspect of getting a crown placed—many people just aren’t a fan of the dentist, and will be nervous even during a painless procedure. For those people, sedation dentistry is readily available. Nitrous oxide and oral sedation can put even the most anxious patients at ease.

Will There Be Discomfort After the Procedure?

Compared to many other dental procedures, discomfort after getting dental crowns is incredibly mild. The most you’ll have to deal with is some irritation around the crown caused by the dental cement. Your dentist will likely give you more detailed aftercare instructions, but over-the-counter pain relief should be more than enough to deal with whatever you might be feeling. After that, you can take care of your crown the way you would any tooth; brush it twice daily, and floss around it once a day.

If your dentist has recommended you get a dental crown, it’s probable that whatever issue you’re dealing with is more painful than the procedure will be. With that in mind, there’s no reason to be worried.

About the Author

Dr. Travis Markle opened his own practice in 2006, and his favorite part of his job has been getting to know his patients on a personal level. Forming those bonds has made seeing the results of his excellent dental care all the more satisfying. Dr. Markle received his doctorate from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio, and he’s received hundreds of hours of continuing education ever since. If you have any questions about dental crowns, he can be reached at his website or by phone at (903) 597-7902.