How Long Does It Take for a Crown to Be Fitted?

If you’ve been told you need a dental crown, you might be wondering how long the whole process will take. Will it be quick and easy, or will you be spending hours in the dentist’s chair? Don’t worry—getting a crown fitted is a routine procedure, and with modern dentistry, it’s more straightforward than you might think. Here’s a friendly guide to help you understand how long it takes to get a crown and what to expect along the way.

What Exactly Is a Dental Crown?

Before we dive into the timing, let’s quickly explain what a crown is. A dental crown is like a protective “cap” that fits over a damaged, weak, or broken tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. Crowns can also be used to cover large fillings, strengthen teeth after a root canal, or improve the appearance of a tooth.

They’re usually made from materials like porcelain, ceramic, or even metal alloys, depending on your needs and budget. Once it’s fitted, a crown looks and functions just like a natural tooth.

How Long Does the Process Take?

In most cases, getting a dental crown fitted takes two visits to the dentist over the course of about 1 to 2 weeks. Here’s what happens during each appointment:

1. The First Appointment: Preparing the Tooth

The first visit is all about preparing your tooth for the crown and taking impressions. Here’s what you can expect:

Examination: Your dentist will examine the tooth and take X-rays to check the root and surrounding bone.
Tooth Preparation: The tooth is gently reshaped to make space for the crown. Don’t worry—it’s done under local anaesthetic, so you won’t feel a thing.
Impressions: Your dentist will take an impression of the tooth (and surrounding teeth) to ensure the crown fits perfectly. This might be done with traditional moulds or a digital scan.
Temporary Crown: A temporary crown is placed on the tooth to protect it while your permanent crown is being made.
How long does this take? The first appointment usually takes 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the complexity of the case.

2. The Second Appointment: Fitting the Crown

Once your permanent crown is ready (usually within 1 to 2 weeks), you’ll come back for your second appointment. Here’s what happens:

Removing the Temporary Crown: Your dentist will gently take off the temporary crown.
Trying On the Permanent Crown: The new crown is placed over your tooth to check the fit, shape, and colour. Adjustments are made to ensure it’s perfect.
Securing the Crown: Once you and your dentist are happy with the fit, the crown is permanently cemented into place.
How long does this take? The second visit is usually 30 to 45 minutes, and then you’re all set with your brand-new crown!

Are There Faster Options?

Yes! If your dentist has access to same-day crown technology, like CEREC (a system that designs and mills crowns on-site), you can get your crown prepared and fitted in just one appointment. This can save time, but not all dental practices offer this option, so it’s worth asking your dentist.

What to Expect After Getting a Crown

Once your crown is fitted, it might feel a little strange for the first day or two while you get used to it. Here’s what you can expect:

Mild Sensitivity: Your tooth might feel slightly sensitive for a day or so, but this usually settles quickly.
Eating and Brushing: Avoid hard or sticky foods for a few hours after the crown is placed, and brush and floss gently around the area.
Follow-Up: If your bite feels “off” or the crown feels uncomfortable after a couple of days, let your dentist know—they can make small adjustments if needed.
With good care, a crown can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years or longer, so it’s a great long-term solution for a damaged tooth.

Conclusion: Two Visits for a Healthier Smile

In most cases, getting a dental crown takes two appointments over 1 to 2 weeks, with each visit lasting less than an hour. If you’re lucky, your dentist might offer same-day crowns, which means you can get everything done in just one trip!

So, if you’ve got a damaged tooth that needs a little TLC, a crown is a fantastic option to restore your smile and confidence. It’s quick, effective, and with the right care, it’ll keep your teeth looking great for years to come!

If you’re unsure about the process or have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist—they’ll guide you every step of the way. And if you ever need quick dental advice from home, apps like Toothfairy can connect you with UK-licensed dentists to answer your questions and put your mind at ease.

Last updated on December 16, 2024

Dr. Deepak

Dr. Deepak

ToothFairy Care Team.

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