So, here is the scenario. Your dentist just said you need a crown. No, not the royal kind, but something just as important for your smile! Your dentist tells you that a dental crown is one of the most common (and effective) ways to restore a tooth that’s damaged, decayed, or just not looking or functioning its best. (We know Dr Arnold dentist, would certainly say that!)
But this leaves you wondering what the process entails. Will it be painful? Would I need downtime?
Let’s walk through the process step by step so you know exactly what to expect—and why it’s all worth it.
| Looking for dentistry in Buckhead? Dr. Mariam Bakheet and Dr. Hal N. Arnold specialize in providing high-quality, natural-looking dental crowns that restore both function and confidence. We don’t brag, but they are surely the best dentist for crowns! Book your appointment today. |
Step 1: The Consultation
The first and most important step is to ascertain whether or not a dental crown procedure is the right fit for your condition.
When would you need a crown?
- A tooth has a large cavity that can’t be filled
- You’ve had a root canal
- The tooth is cracked, worn down, or misshapen
- You want to improve the appearance of a discolored tooth
If a crown is the way to go, your dentist for crown will explain the type you can go for. It could be porcelain, ceramic, gold, or metal-fused-to-porcelain.
Step 2: Prepping the Tooth
For your crown to fit, your dentist will need to reshape the tooth. During this, they will remove any decay and trim it slightly so there’s room for the crown to fit securely and naturally. Before doing the procedure, the area will be numbed, so you won’t feel the pain and will be comfortable.
If your tooth is broken or worn down, your dentist might build it up with a filling material first to support the crown better.
Step 3: Impressions & Temporary Crown
Next comes the impression stage. Your dentist will take a digital scan or traditional mold of your prepared tooth and the surrounding bite. While the lab works on your custom crown (which can take 1–2 weeks), you’ll be fitted with a temporary crown to protect the tooth and maintain function.
Step 4: The Final Fit – Crown Placement Day!
Once your permanent crown is ready, you’ll return for your second visit. The dentist will remove the temporary crown and try in the new one, checking the fit, bite, and shade. Adjustments are made as needed so everything looks and feels just right.
The crown is then permanently cemented in place. Just like that, your tooth is back in action!
What Happens After?
Expect to feel a bit of sensitivity for a few days, especially to hot or cold, but this usually goes away quickly. You can eat and speak normally almost immediately.
And with good oral hygiene and regular check-ups, your crown can last 10–15 years or longer!
Looking for the Best Dentist in Atlanta?
If you think you might need a crown or have questions about the process, we are here to guide you every step of the way. Book your appointment today to consult with Dr. Mariam Bakheet or Dr. Hal N. Arnold and take the first step toward a stronger, healthier smile.