Having a dental crown placed can be a stressful experience, but it can be made easier with a little patience and preparation. Knowing how long dental crowns take and what factors can affect the process can help you better prepare and manage expectations.
In this article, we discuss the average time it takes to place a dental crown, the factors that affect this time, and why patience is important when it comes to dental crowns.
What Is a Dental Crown
A dental crown is a restoration that covers the entire visible portion of a tooth, acting as a cap, and is held in place by a metal or resin preposition. Dental crowns are typically used to restore the strength and function of teeth that are weak or have undergone other treatments such as dental implant or bridge procedures.
There are two types of dental crowns: temporary and permanent. Temporary crowns are typically made out of acrylic and are used as a space holder while a permanent crown is being created. Permanent crowns are usually made out of porcelain, metal, or a combination of the two.
The dental crown procedure is fairly straightforward and generally takes two visits to the dental office. During the first visit, the tooth will be prepared for the crown and then a digital impression will be taken of the tooth. During the second visit, the permanent crown is placed and cemented onto the tooth using dental cement. Depending on the type of crown, the entire procedure can take anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks.
Patience pays off when it comes to dental crowns because the end result is a beautiful, healthy, and strong tooth that is perfectly matched to the surrounding teeth. Knowing how long dental crowns take and understanding the importance of the process allows for an informed decision about the type of crown that is best for you.
What Is the Process for Getting a Dental Crown
Preparing for a dental crown requires a process that involves multiple steps and can take several weeks to complete. The first step is a root canal to remove any infected or decayed tissue from the affected tooth.
Then, a dental impression is made to replicate the shape and size of the original tooth, which will be used to create a tooth-shaped cap. After the impression is complete, the dentist will decide the type of crown to use, such as porcelain, ceramic, or lithium disilicate.
The crown is then created with a milling machine or through a digital impression. The patient will then need to visit the dentist again to have the crown fitted and shaped to ensure a comfortable fit.
Once the crown is fitted, the patient will need to return for a few more visits for the dentist to check on the fit and adjust as necessary. Patience is key with this process, but in the end, the patient will be rewarded with a beautiful and properly fitted tooth-shaped cap to complete their smile.
What Is the Average Timeframe for Placing a Dental Crown
The average timeframe for placing a dental crown is typically several weeks, depending on the complexity of the procedure. Dental professionals usually recommend metal crowns to treat damaged or decayed teeth. But, if a root canal treatment is needed, it can extend the timeframe for the placement of a crown. A custom crown may also be necessary depending on the type of material used and the patient’s personal preferences. For convenience, same-day crowns are available, but they can be expensive.
Regular visits to the dentist are required for the placement of a dental crown. The dentist will prepare the tooth for the crown, take an impression of the tooth, and then send it to a lab for fabrication of the crown. During the second visit, the dental professional will fit, adjust, and cement the crown.
Having patience when it comes to dental crowns is important. It’s essential to follow the advice of your dental professional so that the crown is placed properly and remains in good condition. While it may take several weeks for a dental crown to be placed, the result is worth the wait.
What Factors Influence the Time to Place a Dental Crown
Several factors can influence the timeframe for placing a dental crown. This includes the complexity of the procedure, the type of material used, and the patient’s personal preferences.
Tooth decay, which can lead to the need for a crown, can reduce the natural teeth and damage the weak tooth structure. Depending on the severity of the decay, the process of placing a dental crown can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks.
The type of material used for a crown also impacts the timeframe. Metal alloys, such as gold, as well as ceramic crowns and porcelain crowns can be used for types of crowns. However, if the patient desires a more natural-looking crown, a variety of other materials are available. These materials require more time to be custom-made and placed in the mouth.
Finally, the patient’s personal preferences can influence the timeframe. If a patient desires a specific type of crown, it may take more time to locate and acquire it. Additionally, the scheduling of dental appointments and the coordination of other treatments can also extend the timeframe.
Patience pays off when it comes to dental crowns, as taking the time to properly place a crown will ensure that it lasts for many years. With the right care and attention, a crown can last for decades. Therefore, it is important to understand the factors that can influence the timeframe for placing it.
How Can I Prepare for My Dental Crown Appointment
Attending a dental crown appointment properly prepared can help ensure the procedure goes as smoothly as possible. To ensure this, it is important to maintain your oral health and practice proper care for your natural teeth. Good oral hygiene is an essential part of preparing for a dental crown appointment. This includes brushing and flossing your teeth regularly, as well as scheduling regular checkups with your dentist. Additionally, if you are suffering from gum disease or have any known allergies, these should be discussed with your dentist ahead of time to ensure that the dental crown treatment is as successful as possible.
At the time of the appointment, the experienced dentist will examine your mouth and may use a temporary cement to make sure that the dental crown fits properly. Once the crown is in place, it should last for many years; however, it is important to practice good oral hygiene in order to keep the crown in good condition. This includes brushing and flossing regularly, as well as attending regular checkups with your dentist.
Why Is Patience Important With Dental Crowns?
Patience is key when it comes to dental crowns, as the process from start to finish can take several weeks. From the initial appointment to the moment when the patient finally gets to show off their perfect smile, there are several steps that must be taken to ensure that the crown will be successful. The length of the process can vary depending on the type of crown chosen and the condition of the broken tooth or damaged teeth.
For those seeking a Zirconia crown, the entire tooth must be prepped for the crown to be placed. This means that the dentist must remove any remaining healthy tooth structure to make room for the crown. The dentist will then take an impression of the tooth using impression materials, and this impression will be sent to a lab to create the crown.
For a traditional crown, the dentist will reshape the broken tooth to make room for the crown. The dentist will then take an impression of the tooth and send it to the lab. The lab will then create the crown and send it back to the dentist, who will then bond the crown to the tooth.
Patience is important throughout the entire process, as eating sticky foods can cause the loose crown to even fall out. Additionally, patients may experience some sensitivity after the crown is placed, which is normal.
Overall, patience pays off when it comes to dental crowns, as the process from start to finish takes several weeks. As long as patients avoid sticky foods and follow all of their dentist’s instructions, they will be able to enjoy a beautiful, healthy smile.
Key Takeaways
Dental crowns are a restorative procedure that require patience in order to achieve the desired results. Understanding the process of placing a crown, the average timeframe, and the factors that can influence the length of the process can help to prepare for the appointment and provide peace of mind.
With the right preparation and understanding of the process, patience with dental crowns can pay off with a successful outcome.
If you’re looking for a patient and experienced dental team in Macquarie Park to help you through the process of getting a dental crown for your smile, look no further than North Ryde Dental. Located in Macquarie Park, NSW, North Ryde Dental offers a wide range of services from general dentistry to cosmetic procedures to help you achieve the smile of your dreams. Schedule an appointment today and let the professional team at North Ryde Dental help you achieve that perfect smile.