A dental crown is recommended for teeth that are extremely discolored, broken, or worn down. The procedure can be completed in two visits to your dentist. If you are planning to get a dental crown, here is what you need to know.

What Can You Expect?

Unless you have had a dental crown before, you might be nervous about the procedure. However, there is nothing to fear. It is a routine procedure that is relatively painless.

Before placing the crown, your dentist will need to prepare the tooth. The preparation steps depends largely on the condition of your tooth. For instance, if you have infected pulp, the dentist will need to remove the pulp and fill the cavity before you can have the crown.

The dentist also has to file the tooth so that the crown can fit over it. Once the tooth is the right size, the dentist will make an impression of it. A permanent crown will be made from the impression. Until the permanent crown is ready, you will wear a temporary crown. The crown protects your teeth and prevents problems, such as teeth sensitivity.

After your permanent crown is ready, the temporary one will be removed and the permanent put into place. The crown might feel strange in your mouth for a few days, but once you have gotten used to it, you likely will not notice it any longer.

How Do You Care for the Dental Crown?

Taking care of your dental crown is the same as caring for your teeth. Remember to brush at least twice a day. You also need to floss at least once daily. The crown does not protect you from infection, so taking care of your teeth is important.

You also should consider using a fluoride or antibacterial mouthwash. Both can not only help with lowering the risk of infection, but they will help to keep your crown in good condition.

You have to be careful with what you eat once the crown is in place. Hard foods, such as nuts, can damage the crown. You should also avoid eating ice with the crown.

Regular checkups from a dentist, such as at Four Corners Dental Group, will help to keep your dental crown and other teeth healthy. During those visits, plaque and other bacteria can be removed to help lower the risk of infection. If you have concerns about the crown, let your dentist know during your next checkup.