We use crowns for a variety of reasons. No matter the reason, the result is often a strong, natural-looking restoration that blends seamlessly with your other teeth. You can think of a dental crown as your tooth’s protective armor, allowing you to enjoy life without that nagging worry of further damage or discomfort. Let’s dig a bit deeper with some common questions people usually ask about crowns.
What Exactly Is a Dental Crown, and Why Is It Needed?
A dental crown is a custom-made covering designed to fit right over your natural tooth (once the tooth has been properly prepared). It can be made of porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a blend of different materials. The goal is to create a perfect balance between aesthetics (making it look like it belongs in your mouth) and function (letting you bite and chew properly.)
Why might you need a dental crown? There are plenty of reasons. Maybe you accidentally bit down on something a bit too hard at lunch and fractured your tooth. Perhaps you have an older, large filling that’s failing, which puts the tooth at risk for future damage or infection. Or maybe you’ve just finished a root canal and need a crown to protect the treated tooth. In all these cases, a crown can be a comprehensive solution that not only shields your tooth but also extends its longevity.
Here at South Pasadena Dental, we want to make sure you know your tooth is in good hands. We customize each crown to blend with the color and shape of your natural teeth. This is something that can really boost your confidence; after all, no one wants to be self-conscious about a mismatch in their smile. Our process ensures a smooth transition between your crown and the rest of your teeth, so you can talk, eat, and smile without skipping a beat.
Will I Feel Any Pain While Getting a Dental Crown?
We get this question often, and we understand—it’s completely normal to be concerned about discomfort or pain when it comes to dental procedures. The good news is that modern dentistry has come a long way, and most people report that getting a crown involves minimal discomfort.
Here’s a quick rundown of what typically happens:
- Assessment and Preparation: We’ll start by examining your tooth, possibly taking X-rays to assess the extent of any damage or decay. If we find any decay, we’ll remove it to make sure your tooth is clean and healthy underneath the crown.
- Shaping the Tooth: Your dentist will then gently shape the tooth to create enough space for the crown to fit over it. We’ll apply a local anesthetic, so you won’t feel any pain during this step. It might feel a bit strange to have your tooth “shaved down,” but rest assured, this is done with precision to ensure the best fit.
- Taking Impressions: Once your tooth is prepared, we’ll take impressions (digital scans or a mold) of your teeth. This helps us create a crown that fits perfectly in your bite, making it comfortable and secure.
- Temporary Crown: While your permanent crown is being fabricated, you’ll typically receive a temporary crown to protect your tooth in the meantime. Some patients experience slight sensitivity with a temporary crown, but it’s generally mild and manageable.
- Fitting the Permanent Crown: When your custom crown is ready, we’ll place it over your prepared tooth to check the fit, shape, and color. If everything looks and feels right, we’ll cement it in place. You may feel a little pressure during this step, but again, pain is usually minimal to nonexistent.
Most people are pleasantly surprised at how routine and comfortable the crowning process can be. Of course, everyone’s pain threshold is different, but we’re here to ensure you feel as comfortable as possible. It’s our job to make this experience a positive one, and we take that job seriously.
Do I Have to Change My Routine After Getting a Crown?
It’s a relief to know that, in most cases, you won’t have to make major changes to your day-to-day activities once your crown is placed. You’ll be able to smile, talk, and chew normally—usually without giving it a second thought. That said, there are a few helpful tips to keep your crown in great shape:
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush twice a day and floss daily. While your crown is durable, it’s still attached to your real tooth beneath the surface, so maintaining strong oral hygiene is key. There’s always a risk of decay setting in at the edges if bacteria get trapped there.
- Stay Mindful About Biting Down: If you’ve been told you have a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth (a condition known as bruxism), wearing a nightguard can help protect both your crown and your natural teeth. Grinding can wear down or crack a crown over time, so this extra precaution goes a long way.
- Visit Us for Routine Check-Ups: Regular cleaning and exam visits with your dentist are crucial. Not only do these appointments help prevent issues like gum disease and cavities, but they also allow us to keep an eye on your crown and ensure it’s holding up well. If it ever needs an adjustment, we’d rather catch the problem early.
- Listen to Your Tooth: Sometimes, a newly placed crown might feel slightly off at first, as your bite adjusts. If that feeling doesn’t resolve quickly, or if you experience any persistent soreness or sensitivity, don’t hesitate to reach out so we can take a look.
For the most part, living with a dental crown feels no different than having a normal tooth. After a short adjustment period, you might even forget you have a crown at all!
How Dental Crowns Can Change Your Life for the Better
A damaged or decayed tooth doesn’t just affect your oral health—it can impact how you feel about yourself, too. It’s tough to enjoy your favorite foods when you’re worried about pain or further damaging a weak tooth. And it’s normal to feel a bit shy about smiling or talking if there’s a noticeable chip or discoloration.
Dental crowns can address these concerns by providing:
- Protection: The crown acts as a sturdy barrier, preventing cracks or decay from spreading.
- Renewed Function: Biting into an apple or chewing your favorite steak can be stress-free again.
- Confidence: A crown that blends in seamlessly with your other teeth can help you feel great about your appearance.
We often see patients whose entire outlook on dental care improves after getting a crown. They realize the process is simpler than they imagined and experience a newfound sense of relief when they no longer have to worry about a vulnerable tooth.
Personalizing the Experience at South Pasadena Dental
One of the aspects we’re proud of at South Pasadena Dental is how we customize the dental experience for you. From the moment you walk in, our team wants to get to know you, not just your teeth. We believe understanding your concerns, preferences, and even your past dental experiences is crucial. This insight helps us tailor treatment in a way that leaves you feeling informed, supported, and comfortable.
When it comes to crowns, we collaborate with reputable dental labs and use high-quality materials. This ensures that your crown not only looks good but is also resilient and long-lasting. After all, we don’t just want to fix your tooth for a little while—we want to give you a solution that feels good and lasts for years.
Ready to Bring Your Tooth Back to Life?
If you’re dealing with a damaged or weakened tooth, getting a dental crown could be the step you need to protect your oral health, restore your confidence, and keep your smile glowing for the long haul. Sometimes we put off dental work because of anxiety or a busy schedule, but the truth is, you deserve a smile that you can rely on. And you don’t have to face it alone—we’re here to help.
Why wait? Give us a call today or click to schedule an appointment at South Pasadena Dental. We’ll be happy to chat with you about your options, walk you through the process, and make sure you feel at ease every step of the way. A healthier, happier smile may be just one appointment away.
