Dental Crown Procedure: What to Expect Before, During, and After

Dental crowns are a common and highly effective solution for restoring damaged, decayed, or weakened teeth. At Fraser Point Dental, we understand that any dental procedure can seem daunting if you’re not sure what to expect. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide to walk you through the entire dental crown process—from your initial consultation to post-procedure care—so you feel informed and at ease every step of the way.

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a custom-made “cap” that fits over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are often used when a filling isn’t sufficient to restore the tooth, after root canal treatment, or to cover a dental implant. They can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or a combination of these.

At Fraser Point Dental, we carefully select the crown material based on the location of the tooth, your aesthetic preferences, and functional needs.

Before the Procedure: Consultation and Preparation

1. Initial Consultation

Your dental crown journey begins with a comprehensive examination. During your first visit, we will:

• Take X-rays to assess the root and surrounding bone structure.
• Evaluate the extent of damage or decay.
• Determine whether a crown is the right solution for your specific needs.

If the tooth is severely decayed or infected, we may recommend a root canal treatment before proceeding with the crown.

2. Tooth Preparation

Once a crown is deemed necessary, the next step is tooth preparation. This involves reshaping the affected tooth to make room for the crown. We will:

• Numb the area with a local anesthetic for a pain-free experience.
• Remove a portion of the tooth structure to ensure the crown fits properly.
• In some cases, if the tooth is too damaged, we may build it up with filling material first.

3. Taking Impressions

After shaping the tooth, we take a digital scan or impression of the area to ensure your crown fits seamlessly with your bite. These impressions are sent to a dental lab where your custom crown is crafted.

While your permanent crown is being made (which typically takes 1–2 weeks), we will fit you with a temporary crown to protect your tooth and maintain function.

During the Procedure: Crown Placement

1. Temporary Crown Removal

When your permanent crown is ready, you’ll return to Fraser Point Dental for placement. First, we’ll gently remove the temporary crown and clean the underlying tooth.

2. Fit and Function Check

Before cementing the crown, we’ll:

• Ensure proper fit and alignment.
• Check your bite to make sure the crown isn’t too high or causing discomfort.
• Assess the colour and shape for a natural look.

We take great care to ensure that your crown not only functions properly but also blends in seamlessly with your natural teeth.

3. Permanent Placement

Once everything checks out, we’ll use dental cement or adhesive to permanently fix the crown in place. The crown is then polished and adjusted as needed for comfort and appearance.

The entire placement process usually takes less than an hour, and you’ll leave the clinic with a fully functional, beautiful tooth restoration.

After the Procedure: Recovery and Care

Recovery after a dental crown procedure is generally smooth and quick. Here’s what to expect:

1. Sensitivity and Discomfort

It’s normal to experience mild sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages for a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage any discomfort. If the pain persists or worsens, contact us for a follow-up.

2. Eating and Oral Hygiene

Avoid sticky or hard foods for the first 24 hours to allow the cement to fully set. After that, you can eat normally, but continue practicing good oral hygiene:

• Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Floss gently around the crown to avoid dislodging it.
• Use a fluoride toothpaste to protect against decay.

3. Follow-Up Care

We’ll schedule follow-up visits to monitor your crown and overall oral health. With proper care, a dental crown can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years—or even longer.

When to Call Your Dentist

Contact Fraser Point Dental Clinic if you notice:

• Persistent pain or discomfort when biting.
• Loosening or chipping of the crown.
• Inflammation or signs of infection near the crowned tooth.

Prompt attention can help prevent complications and extend the lifespan of your crown.

Why Choose Fraser Point Dental for Your Dental Crown?

At Fraser Point Dental, we combine expert care with modern technology to provide crowns that are durable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. Our patient-centred approach ensures you’re comfortable and informed throughout your treatment.

From consultation to final placement, our team is committed to giving you a smooth, stress-free experience and long-lasting results.

Book Your Appointment Today

Ready to restore your smile? Contact Fraser Point Dental to schedule your dental crown consultation. Let us help you regain confidence in your bite and your smile—with care you can trust.