Dental professionals typically numb the mouth when preparing a tooth for a dental crown. A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that restores a damaged, decayed, or weakened tooth, providing strength, protection, and improved appearance. It fits over the entire visible portion of the tooth, acting like a protective covering. This procedure addresses issues like large cavities, fractures, or significant wear.
Why Numbing is Part of the Procedure
Numbing ensures patient comfort and allows the dentist to work effectively during a dental crown procedure. The process involves reshaping the tooth by removing a small amount of enamel and dentin from its outer surface, creating space for the crown to fit properly and bond securely. Even if a tooth does not feel sensitive beforehand, drilling and shaping can irritate the underlying nerve within the pulp. This irritation can lead to discomfort during the preparation phase. Local anesthesia prevents these sensations, enabling the dentist to perform precise work without interruption.
How Local Anesthesia is Administered
Local anesthesia commonly involves medications such as lidocaine or articaine, which temporarily block nerve signals in the treated area. Before the injection, a dentist often applies a topical numbing gel to the gum tissue. This gel, like those containing lidocaine or benzocaine, reduces the sensation of the needle stick. The local anesthetic is then administered via a small needle into the gum or inner cheek near the tooth requiring treatment. Patients may feel a brief sting or pressure as the solution is injected. The anesthetic works by inhibiting the rapid inflow of sodium ions into nerve cells, preventing them from transmitting pain signals to the brain. Numbness typically begins within five minutes and can last for one to two hours, providing sufficient time for the procedure.
What to Expect After the Numbing
After the dental crown procedure, the numbness from the local anesthesia will gradually wear off. This temporary loss of sensation typically lasts for a few hours, often between two to six hours, depending on the type and amount of anesthetic used and individual metabolism. As the numbness subsides, patients might experience a tingling sensation as feeling returns to the lips, cheeks, and tongue. It is advisable to avoid chewing on the numb side of the mouth to prevent accidentally biting the cheek or tongue, as sensation is impaired. Consuming hot foods or beverages should also be avoided until full feeling returns to prevent burns. Some mild soreness at the injection site is normal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Applying a warm compress or gently massaging the affected area can sometimes help accelerate the return of sensation by increasing blood flow.
When Numbing Might Not Be Necessary
In specific situations, numbing may not be required for a dental crown procedure. The primary example is a tooth that has already undergone root canal treatment. During a root canal, the infected or damaged pulp, which contains the tooth’s nerves, is removed. Since the nerve tissue is no longer present, the tooth is considered non-vital and does not transmit pain signals. Therefore, preparing a root canal-treated tooth for a crown typically does not necessitate local anesthesia for pain control. However, some dentists may still opt to numb the surrounding gum tissue for patient comfort, especially if the crown margin extends below the gum line.