However much you want a dental crown, don’t expect treatment to be instant. A dentist will have to prep your tooth before they can place the final cap. That being the case, you may wonder how dentists prepare teeth for crowns in the first place. Does the process go simply and quickly, or is it pretty complex? Your Fort Myers dentist is here to address the question, so keep reading to learn how teeth get prepared for dental crowns.
First is the Oral Exam
To start things off, the treating dentist will first examine your tooth. Doing so settles whether the damaged area needs a dental crown or some other procedure.
This oral exam will specifically look for signs of dental decay and damage. To that end, it may involve dental X-rays; these images offer a better view of tooth roots. The pictures taken and other close looks will then help the dentist decide if you need treatment.
Next, Dental Drilling
If the dentist approves treatment, their next step will be to remove your tooth’s damaged bits. This removal work usually relies on dental drills and similar tools.
In general, removing the damaged areas is easy and painless. The dentist will have numbed the treatment site before going forward. Since that’s the case, any drilling that occurs won’t lead to aches or pains. The most you’ll feel is some slight pressure as the dental team works.
Cleaning & Filling Come Later
The dentist will start the next preparation phase once your tooth’s damaged parts are gone. At that point, they’ll clean and fill the treatment site’s newly-formed empty spaces.
Honestly, cleaning and filling are crucial to crown treatment. Through these measures, a dentist removes harmful elements from your tooth and thoroughly disinfects it. The treatment site is then less likely to house bacteria that cause an infection later.
Smoothing Out at Last
A dentist will smooth your tooth’s surfaces for the last part of preparation. Put another way, they’ll file down bits of the outer layer.
As it turns out, a decayed or damaged tooth can have sharp edges. These areas may cut your mouth’s soft tissues if they aren’t dealt with. More importantly, they could get in the way of your future crown’s placement. Smoothing out those rough spots ensures your final prosthetic fits well and reduces your risk of injury.
Now that you know how dentists prepare teeth for crowns, you can go into treatment confidently. Trust that your tooth’s cap will do it lots of good!
About the Practice
Total Dental Solutions for Adults is based in Fort Myers, FL. Led by Dr. George Hoop, our practice aims to meet any of your smile’s needs. That’s why we offer preventive, cosmetic, and even restorative dentistry, as well as emergency dental care for severe cases. We’re just as ready to provide implants and crowns as we are to give checkups and cleanings! For more details or to book a visit, please contact us on our website or by phone at (239)-939-7299.