If you’re not a fan of visiting the dentist, chances are you want to know how long the process of getting a crown takes. Because of the amount of technical work involved, it can take several weeks from start to finish before you have your crown successfully fixed to your tooth.
This may sound like a long time, but it will be worth it.
There’s more to getting a crown procedure than simply showing up at the dental office and getting the glue ready. Each crown is made to your unique measurements, and – depending on the material chosen – coloured to blend with your surrounding teeth.
The precision involved can mean it takes time to finalise the piece – but you can’t rush perfection! Read on to find out more about the process your crown will go through, and how your dentist makes sure that it’ll be comfortable and secure for years to come.
The Process of Getting Crowns
First, you’ll have an initial consultation. Your professional dentist will examine the tooth or teeth that require intervention, and possibly take x-rays to proactively ensure there are no signs of hidden problems that’ll arise during your crown’s lifespan.
At your next appointment – which can take several hours depending on the extent of the damage – your tooth will be prepared for the crown. This often involves removing some enamel and slightly reshaping the tooth for the exact placement of the crown. Once this is complete, your dentist will take an impression or scan of the tooth, which they will use as the reference for your custom-made crown.
If necessary, you may be invited back to receive a temporary crown (which takes around an hour). This would be an interim cover for your tooth to protect it while your permanent fixture is being created.
It can take up to 2 weeks for your crown to be designed, created, and delivered to your dentist. Unfortunately, there’s no definite timing for this as it can depend on the workload they have at the lab. Speak with your dentist during your initial consultation about potential wait times in the local area so you have a clearer idea of the timespan.
Once your dentist has received the crown, you can have it permanently bonded to your tooth. This should take 30 – 90 minutes but will depend on the complexity of your case. You’ll try the crown to ensure it is indeed the perfect fit – but, if needed, your dentist will make any adjustments necessary.
Finally, you’ll have a follow-up appointment to ensure there are no issues with the crown and that it’s working well for you.
Custom Crowns Take Time – But They’re Worth It
It does take several weeks to go from the start to the end of the process – and even that varies depending on the laboratory workload and the number of available appointments your dentist has in the immediate future.
A custom crown is far preferable to the alternative – a one-size-fits-all approach. By getting a crown that suits your exact measurements, you can be sure of long-lasting comfort and minimal chances of infection.
If you would like to know about My Family Dental’s crown services and the length of time we’re quoting right now, contact us today.
