Dental Crowns in Lacombe, AB

Understanding what happens during your dental crown appointment can make a real difference. Many patients in Lacombe, AB feel nervous simply because they don’t know what to expect. This step-by-step guide walks you through the entire process. From numbing to temporary placement to final seating, we cover it all so you feel confident walking in.

At Aurora Dental Group, Dr. Brock Wilde and our team believe informed patients are relaxed patients. We offer General Dentistry services built around your comfort and long-term oral health. A dental crown is one of the most common restorative treatments we provide. Knowing each step helps reduce anxiety and puts you in control.

Why You Might Need a Dental Crown in Lacombe

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap placed over a damaged or weakened tooth. It restores the tooth’s shape, strength, and appearance. Dr. Wilde may recommend a crown for several different reasons.

Common reasons patients in Lacombe need dental crowns include:

• A tooth weakened by large decay or a large filling
• A cracked or fractured tooth that needs protection
• A tooth that has recently had root canal treatment
• A broken-down tooth that needs full restoration
• Cosmetic improvement for misshapen or severely discoloured teeth

Crowns are also used to anchor dental bridges in place. In some cases, they play a role in Cosmetic Dentistry treatments to improve your smile’s overall look. Whatever the reason, the appointment process is very similar each time.

Step-by-Step: What Happens During Your First Crown Appointment

Most dental crown procedures require two separate appointments. The first visit focuses on preparing the tooth and taking impressions. Here is exactly what you can expect during that first visit at Aurora Dental Group.

1. Numbing the area: Dr. Wilde applies a topical gel first to reduce the sting of the injection. Then a local anaesthetic is administered to fully numb the tooth and surrounding tissue. You will feel pressure during the procedure, but not pain.
2. Tooth preparation: The tooth is shaped to create room for the crown. Dr. Wilde removes a small, even layer from all sides of the tooth. This ensures the crown fits properly and looks natural.
3. Impressions or digital scans: An impression of your prepared tooth is taken. We may use traditional putty moulds or a digital scanner depending on your treatment. These records are sent to a dental lab to fabricate your custom crown.
4. Shade matching: Dr. Wilde carefully matches the crown colour to your surrounding teeth. This step is especially important for front teeth. A natural-looking result is always the goal.
5. Temporary crown placement: A temporary crown is fitted over your prepared tooth. This protects the tooth while your permanent crown is being made. The lab typically requires one to two weeks to complete your crown.

The entire first appointment usually takes about one to two hours. Most patients are surprised by how straightforward the process feels once they experience it. The numbing ensures you remain comfortable throughout.

Living With Your Temporary Crown in Lacombe

Once you leave Aurora Dental Group after your first visit, you will have a temporary crown in place. Temporary crowns are made from acrylic and are not as strong as permanent ones. A few simple precautions will help protect it.

Here are tips for caring for your temporary crown:

• Avoid sticky or chewy foods like caramel or gum
• Chew on the opposite side of your mouth when possible
• Brush gently around the temporary crown
• Floss carefully — pull the floss out sideways rather than up
• Contact our office right away if the temporary crown comes off

Some sensitivity to hot and cold foods is completely normal during this period. Your tooth was recently shaped and is temporarily exposed. This sensitivity usually fades once the permanent crown is placed.

What Happens During Your Second Crown Appointment

Your second appointment is typically shorter and more straightforward than the first. This is the visit where Dr. Wilde places your permanent, custom-made crown. Here is what to expect.

First, the temporary crown is gently removed. Dr. Wilde cleans the tooth thoroughly to prepare the surface. The permanent crown is then placed over the tooth to check the fit and colour before cementing.

Dr. Wilde will ask you to bite down and check how the crown feels. Minor adjustments can be made to ensure the bite feels natural. Once everything looks and feels right, the crown is permanently cemented in place.

The final seating appointment usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes. Most patients leave feeling great about how the crown looks and functions. Full numbness is often not required for this visit, though local anaesthetic is available if you prefer it.

Benefits of Getting a Dental Crown at Aurora Dental Group

Choosing an experienced and caring dental team makes a significant difference in your comfort and outcome. Dr. Brock Wilde has helped many Lacombe patients restore damaged teeth with crowns. Our approach is always gentle, thorough, and patient-centred.

Key benefits of dental crowns at our Lacombe clinic include:

• Natural-looking results that blend with your existing teeth
• Long-lasting protection for weakened or damaged teeth
• Improved chewing function and bite comfort
• Prevention of further tooth breakdown or fracture
• A caring, low-anxiety environment throughout the process

Dental crowns can last 10 to 15 years or longer with proper care. Regular brushing, flossing, and routine checkups help extend the life of your crown. Our team will guide you on the best care routine for your specific situation.

Conclusion: Feel Confident About Your Crown Appointment

Understanding each step of the process removes the fear of the unknown. What happens during your dental crown appointment in Lacombe is more straightforward than most patients expect. From numbing to temporary placement to final seating, Dr. Brock Wilde and the Aurora Dental Group team are with you every step of the way.

We take pride in making every visit comfortable, educational, and stress-free. If you have questions about crowns or want to discuss your treatment options, we are here to help. Book Now to schedule your appointment with our team.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does getting a dental crown hurt?

The area is fully numbed before any work begins, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. You may feel some pressure or vibration, but not sharp pain. Some mild soreness after the anaesthetic wears off is normal and usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.

How long does a dental crown last?

A well-made and properly cared-for dental crown can last 10 to 15 years or more. Daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups all help extend the lifespan of your crown. Avoiding habits like chewing ice or grinding your teeth also protects the crown over time.

How many appointments does a dental crown take?

Most dental crown procedures at Aurora Dental Group require two appointments. The first visit involves preparing the tooth, taking impressions, and placing a temporary crown. The second visit, usually one to two weeks later, involves removing the temporary crown and cementing the permanent one in place.

Can I eat normally with a temporary crown?

You can eat after your first appointment, but some caution is recommended. Avoid sticky, hard, or chewy foods while your temporary crown is in place. Chewing on the opposite side of your mouth is a good habit during this period to protect the temporary restoration.

Is a dental crown the same as a cap?

Yes, a dental crown and a dental cap refer to the same thing. Both terms describe a custom-made cover that fits entirely over a damaged or prepared tooth. The crown restores the tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance.