A dental crown, often called a cap, is a tooth-shaped covering that restores a tooth affected by decay, damage, or wear. It protects the compromised tooth, strengthens its structure, and improves its appearance. Dentists prioritize patient comfort during permanent crown placement. Modern dental techniques and local anesthetics make the procedure as comfortable as possible.
The Numbing Process for Permanent Crowns
For a permanent crown procedure, dentists routinely use local anesthesia to ensure comfort during tooth preparation and crown placement. The most common local anesthetics employed in dentistry include lidocaine and articaine. These medications temporarily block nerve signals in the treated area, preventing pain messages from reaching the brain.
The anesthetic is administered via an injection into the gum or cheek. Patients may feel a brief pinch or pressure during the injection, which is often the most noticeable discomfort. Numbing usually begins within minutes, ensuring the area is numb before the dentist starts working. To prolong the anesthetic’s effect and minimize bleeding, a vasoconstrictor like epinephrine is often included.
The numbing effect’s duration varies based on the anesthetic type and individual metabolism. Lidocaine, often combined with epinephrine, provides numbness for 1.5 to 4 hours, while articaine may last 1 to 2.5 hours. Local anesthesia generally lasts 1 to 4 hours, allowing ample time for the procedure to be completed without discomfort. The sensation gradually fades as the body metabolizes the anesthetic.
What to Expect: Sensations During and After
While the tooth and surrounding area are numb, patients will not experience pain during crown preparation. However, it is common to feel pressure or vibrations from dental tools as the dentist reshapes the tooth. These sensations are normal and indicate the procedure is progressing, not that pain is present. The dentist carefully removes any decay and shapes the tooth to ensure the permanent crown fits precisely.
Once the procedure is complete and the local anesthetic wears off, patients may notice a tingling sensation as feeling returns. Some sensitivity or mild discomfort in the tooth and surrounding gums is common in the hours and days following the appointment. This post-procedure sensitivity can result from temporary irritation to the tooth’s nerve during preparation or from the dental cement used to bond the crown.
This discomfort typically subsides within a few days to a couple of weeks as the tooth adjusts to its new crown. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage any residual soreness.
Avoid extremely hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and beverages initially, as these can heighten sensitivity. Opting for softer foods during recovery can also provide comfort. Maintaining good oral hygiene, including gentle brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, supports healing. If sensitivity persists beyond a few weeks, worsens, or is accompanied by other concerns like swelling or an uncomfortable bite, contacting the dentist for an evaluation is advisable.