The 4-Step Process of Preparing a Tooth for a Dental Crown

If one of your pearly whites is damaged or decayed and needs to be repaired, then you’re likely considering getting a dental crown. With this restoration, you can improve the appearance and structure of your tooth while protecting it from bacteria and further complications. However, the beginning of your procedure will involve some reshaping of the enamel. Here are the four main steps when it comes to getting a tooth prepared for a dental crown.

Step #1: Oral Examination

Firstly, your dentist will need to thoroughly evaluate your situation to see if the restoration will be a good solution for you. This should involve taking X-rays so they can see your jawbone and the roots of your tooth. They’ll also want to address any underlying issues, such as an infection, that way you’re free of potential problems after getting your dental crown.

Step #2: Local Anesthesia

Since they’ll need to reshape your tooth enamel, your dentist will want to ensure that you remain as comfortable as possible throughout the preparation process. To do this, they’ll provide you with a local anesthetic to completely numb the area. This will allow you to stay pain-free while they work on shaving down your tooth and getting rid of any decay or damage.

Step #3: Cleaning & Filling

Once your dentist has confirmed that you’re comfortable and numbed, they’ll move on to cleaning the tooth. This involves removing harmful particles and disinfecting the area to avoid bacteria growth. If there are any empty spots left in your enamel, your dentist will be sure to fill them with gutta-percha—a dental material used to keep germs out and reduce the chance of developing new infections.

Step #4: Reshaping the Tooth

Finally, after treating any underlying potential issues, your team will begin to shave and file down the outer layer of your compromised tooth. This is performed by using a dental drill to remove a certain amount of enamel from the top and sides of the surface, which will vary depending on your unique situation. This process is necessary so that your dentist can ensure a proper fit for your future dental crowns. A restoration that doesn’t match the rest of your smile can leave you with a misaligned bite, which can then lead to your enamel wearing down and stress on your jaw.

Repairing your tooth with a dental crown is a reliable way to renew your smile, and your dentist will do everything they can to ensure its success. By knowing how they prepare it, you can feel more confident about your procedure when it’s time to visit!

About the Author

Dr. Wanda Davidson is passionate about delivering high-quality and personalized dental care for her patients. She studied at Howard University College of Dentistry and regularly seeks continuing education to refine her skills. If you have any questions about the dental crown procedure or wish to schedule your consultation, feel free to visit our website or call 202-775-0022.