Dental crowns are one of the most common and effective ways to restore damaged or weakened teeth. But before a crown can be placed, the tooth needs to be properly prepared. If you’ve been told you need a crown, you might wonder what exactly happens during the procedure. Here’s a step-by-step look at how dentists prepare teeth for crowns and why each stage is essential for long-lasting results.
Initial Examination and Consultation
The process begins with a thorough dental examination. Your dentist will evaluate the tooth and surrounding gums to ensure that a crown is the best solution. X-rays are often taken to check the roots of the tooth and the bone beneath it for signs of decay, infection, or damage.
If the tooth has extensive decay or the nerve is compromised, your dentist may recommend additional treatment — such as a root canal — before placing the crown. This ensures the tooth is strong, stable, and free of infection before being covered.
Numbing the Tooth
Before any preparation begins, your dentist will numb the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic. This ensures that you remain comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure. Patients typically feel only mild pressure and vibration during this step, but no discomfort.
Shaping the Tooth
Once the area is numb, your dentist will begin shaping the tooth to make room for the crown. Using specialized dental instruments, they carefully remove a thin layer of enamel from the top and sides of the tooth.
The amount of tooth removed depends on the type of crown being used:
- Metal crowns require less tooth reduction because they’re thin but strong.
- Porcelain or ceramic crowns require more space to ensure durability and a natural appearance.
This shaping step is crucial because it allows the crown to fit snugly over the tooth without feeling bulky or interfering with your bite.
If a large portion of the tooth is missing due to damage or decay, your dentist may build it up with a filling material or dental core to create enough structure for the crown to adhere to.
Taking Impressions
After the tooth is shaped, your dentist will take an impression (mold) of your prepared tooth and the surrounding teeth. This ensures that your crown will fit perfectly and match your natural bite alignment.
Impressions can be made using traditional dental putty or modern digital scanning technology, which captures precise 3D images. These impressions are then sent to a dental laboratory, where your custom crown is carefully crafted to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth.
Placing a Temporary Crown
While your permanent crown is being made — which usually takes one to two weeks — your dentist will place a temporary crown over the prepared tooth. This protects the tooth from sensitivity and damage while maintaining your ability to chew and smile comfortably.
Final Placement
Once your permanent crown is ready, you’ll return for a second visit. Your dentist will remove the temporary crown, check the fit and color of the new one, and make any necessary adjustments. If everything looks and feels right, the crown is cemented into place using a strong dental adhesive.
After placement, your dentist will ensure your bite is even and that the crown feels natural.
Preparing a tooth for a crown is a precise, multi-step process that ensures both durability and aesthetics. With careful shaping, accurate impressions, and modern materials, today’s crowns can last for 10 to 20 years or more, restoring both function and beauty to your smile.
About the Author
Dr. Ben A. Sutter IV earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine in 2005 before completing a General Practice Residency at the Overlook Medical Center in Summit, NJ. He received additional training in forensic dentistry from the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology and the Clark County Medical Examiner’s office. Dr. Sutter’s office was awarded Most Innovative Dental Practice in Oregon in 2023! If you need to save a tooth with a dental crown, schedule an appointment with us online or call (541) 484-1955.