Many people are often worried about the expected pain that comes with any sort of oral healthcare treatment. This can make you push back a service, but it’s important you get them when recommended. For instance, a dental crown can help you regain the function and appearance of your bite, but will it hurt to get one? Here’s what to know to feel confident about your visit.
So, Does Getting a Crown Hurt?
When you are getting a crown, the tooth receiving it will need to be prepared first. Enamel on all sides will need to be removed so your results don’t look bulky and sit flush. That said, this is what patients are often worried about hurting.
The good news is that this process may be easier than you think! Your dentist will begin by thoroughly numbing your mouth with powerful local anesthesia and give you dental sedation. You won’t feel much of anything. In fact, those who got this procedure before say they often only feel pressure or minor discomfort.
Once this part is done, you’ll get impressions taken and have a temporary restoration placed. This part is typically easy, and you’ll need a second visit in a few weeks. This allows your final crown to be made by a dental lab, and you’ll have it bonded on.
What Can I Do to Ease My Soreness?
After both appointments, your mouth may be a bit sore. This is expected, and it’s typically short-lived! It should go away over the next few days, but here are some tips to get relief sooner:
- Avoid hot, cold, sticky, and hard foods as they can lead to sensitivity.
- Do warm saltwater rinses to soothe inflammation.
- Take pain relievers as needed. Follow the directions on the bottle for your correct dosage.
- Brush with a soft-bristle toothpaste to remove bacteria that can cause problems later.
Do I Need to Call My Dentist About My Discomfort?
In the end, feeling some tenderness is normal, and it’s typically nothing you need to call your dentist over. That said, if you notice it’s getting worse, paired with signs of infection (like swelling or redness), or you have trouble biting and chewing with your crown, it might be best to phone your provider. Any worries you have are good enough reasons to reach out! That way, they can ensure you’ll get to the results that help you feel your best.
About the Practice
At New Smile Dental, our team is dedicated to helping patients in the Fort Smith community restore their bites with reliable options like crowns. We understand how you might be a bit nervous about your visit. Led by Dr. Gilberto López, we offer sedation dentistry, so you can trust that you feel more comfortable in our chair toward a stronger bite. If you want to know how we can make this treatment easier for you, schedule an appointment or call our office at (479) 434–4277.