The Procedure

It usually takes two or three dental visits, with two or three weeks between appointments, to restore teeth with a crown.

Before starting, the dentist will probably numb the tooth with a local anesthetic. To prepare for the crown, the dentist will then remove any decayed part of the tooth, plus reshape and possibly rebuild some of the tooth. Your dentist will take a mold of the tooth and then use a temporary crown to protect the tooth until your next appointment. Between visits your permanent crown will be made at the lab, using the mold of your teeth.

Be sure to take good care of your crown between visits. Be careful while flossing or brushing your teeth. Floss and brush your teeth gently. Also, avoid hard or sticky foods.

Fitting Your Permanent Crown

The permanent crown will take the place of the temporary crown and the dentist will check to see if your bite feels normal. After the correct fit is determined, the dentist will cement the permanent crown into place and check to be sure the tooth has been restored to the right shape.