How to Prepare For a Dental Crown

Crowns are placed on teeth that have old, faulty fillings or extensive decay or are chipped or sensitive. The process of putting on a crown takes place in two consecutive appointments. The first appointment is preparatory, in which an impression of the tooth is made and a temporary crown is placed on the tooth. The second visit involves the permanent crown placement using cement and instructions for further care. Preparing before the first appointment and between the second appointment is essential for a smooth procedure.

Things You'll Need

• Analgesic
• Painkillers
• Vaseline

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Instructions

• 1

  Avoid biting your tongue or lip after the local anesthetic has set in. Tell your dentist if you experience any pain during the procedure so that more anesthetic can be applied.

• 2

  Eat only soft foods until the numbness wears off. Chew slowly and carefully so that your temporary crown does not dislodge between appointments.

• 3

  Take painkillers or use an oral analgesic like Orajel for pain as needed after the temporary crown has been put in place. Continue brushing your teeth, taking care not to brush too hard on the temporary crown.

• 4

  Place a drop of Vaseline into the temporary crown if the crown comes loose to hold it in place until you can get in to your dentist.