Dental crowns are used to preserve and protect teeth that have suffered severe damage and decay. A common concern of patients is the amount of pain they will have to go through during the procedure. Most patients wonder how long the treatment is going to be and whether they constantly experience pain throughout the entire time. 

It is important to consult with a dentist to ensure you get the right answers to these questions. The good news is that the procedure of getting dental crowns is pretty straightforward. Moreover, dentists use local anesthesia to numb the area during treatment, which reduces any discomfort during the process. You may only feel some pressure or mild sensations. 

While most patients report little to no pain during the treatment, the overall experience can vary depending on individual pain tolerance and the complexity of the case. If you are considering getting a dental crown in Brookhaven, GA, it is essential to discuss your concerns with a dentist first. They can answer your questions and provide reassurance. 

Do dental crowns hurt during the procedure?

The first step of the procedure is for your dentist to examine your teeth. To ensure that you do not feel any discomfort, your dentist will use local anesthesia to numb the area around the affected tooth. The next step is tooth preparation, which includes reducing the tooth’s size to make space for the crown. You may feel some vibrations and pressure during this stage. 

The pain felt during the tooth preparation process is usually minimal, with individuals reporting that they felt relieved by over-the-counter medicines. Next, your dentist will take impressions of your tooth. This should only cause minimal and brief discomfort. However, some patients do report experiencing mild gag reflexes during this quick process. 

Do dental crowns hurt after the procedure?

After getting your crowns placed, it is common to experience some post-procedure sensitivity. For instance, if your tooth was previously damaged, nerve sensitivity may persist. Additionally, if your dentist has given you a temporary crown, it may not fit properly, and that might lead to sensitivity. The sensitivity from tooth preparation will also last for a couple of weeks. 

The discomfort following a dental crown procedure is common, but you should find relief by using over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. It is a red flag if the pain persists for longer than a couple of weeks and produces extreme pain. In some cases, long-term discomfort may result from other underlying dental issues. 

If your pain persists, visit a dentist immediately. 

How to manage your pain before and after the procedure

Before undergoing the dental crown procedure, you have to take some steps to avoid feeling discomfort. First of all, discuss your concerns regarding any pain that you might experience during the procedure. Knowing beforehand what you can expect can prevent unpleasant surprises. Your dentist can even suggest some pain management options. 

If your dentist approves, you can get over-the-counter pain management medicines like ibuprofen or acetaminophen before the procedure. However, avoid any medications that may thin your blood within 24 hours before the appointment to prevent complications.

After the procedure, make sure that you carefully follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions. This includes how and when to take any prescribed pain relievers. Not following a professional’s advice is the worst thing you can do to your dental health. You can also apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling and ease pain during recovery.

When should you contact your dentist for pain?

If pain persists for more than a few days or worsens, contact your dentist for a follow-up. Signs like swelling, fever, discharge, or bad odors need immediate attention. Additionally, if your bite feels uneven or chewing is uncomfortable, schedule an appointment. 

Don’t ignore your pain!

If you have gotten dental crowns and you are experiencing pain, visit a dentist in Brookhaven, Georgia, today!