Placing a permanent crown is the final step in restoring the tooth’s strength and functionality after a root canal treatment. This custom-made dental cap not only protects but also beautifies the treated tooth. Your dentist in Rancho Bernardo will inspect the color and fit of the crown before placing it. If everything goes well, the crown will be installed. This step takes about 20 to 30 minutes to complete.

This article will review the process of placing a permanent crown, including how long it usually takes and the various factors affecting the time.

The Procedure for Installing a Permanent Crown

The following steps are typically involved in the placement of a permanent crown:

1. Preparation of the Tooth: The dentist begins by preparing the tooth to accept the crownThis procedure entails reshaping the tooth by removing a small portion of its outer layer to make room for the crown. Additional dental work, such as strengthening the tooth’s core or inserting a post, may be required in some cases.
2. Impression Taking: After the tooth has been prepared, your dentist will take an impression of it and the surrounding teeth. This impression will be used to make a mold from which the permanent crown will be made. The dentist may use traditional impression materials, or digital impressions using advanced scanning technology may be used.
3. Temporary Crown Placement: While the permanent crown is being made, a temporary crown is placed over the prepared tooth and fabricated in a dental laboratory. The temporary crown protects the tooth, keeps its shape, and provides functionality.
4. Permanent Crown Placement: The patient returns for the final appointment once the permanent crown is ready, which usually takes 1-2 weeks. Your dentist removes the temporary crown at the Center for Oral Health, and the permanent crown is carefully placed on the prepared tooth. They are responsible for proper fit, bite alignment, and aesthetics. When the patient is completely satisfied, the permanent crown is bonded or cemented in place with dental adhesive or cement.

Factors Influencing the Time Required to Place A Permanent Crown

The time it takes to put on a permanent crown depends on several factors, including:

• Laboratory Fabrication: The time it takes to make a permanent crown in a dental laboratory can range from a few days to a few weeks. This time is determined by the case’s complexity, the laboratory’s workload, and the materials used.
• Wearing the Temporary Crown: The patient’s compliance with wearing the temporary crown is critical. If the temporary crown becomes dislodged or damaged, additional visits to repair or replace it may be required, potentially lengthening the overall process.
• Workflow of the Dentist: The dentist’s availability and schedule can affect the time it takes to complete the crown placement process. Dentists may be required to accommodate multiple patients or to set aside time for laboratory communication and coordination.

The Importance of a Permanent Crown in Root Canal Therapy

Some of the benefits of getting a permanent crown while undergoing root canal therapy include the following:

• Protection and Stability: A permanent crown provides critical protection and stability to a root canal-treated tooth. It protects the treated tooth from fractures while also restoring its functionality, allowing normal biting and chewing.
• Reinfection Prevention: Because the crown acts as a barrier against bacteria, the risk of reinfection is reduced. It seals the tooth, keeping microorganisms out and preventing further complications.
• Aesthetic Improvement: A permanent crown improves the appearance of the treated tooth in addition to its functional benefits. It is custom-made to match the surrounding teeth’s color, shape, and size, resulting in a natural-looking and aesthetically pleasing smile.

The procedure of getting dental crowns near you typically includes tooth preparation, impression taking, temporary crown placement, and permanent crown placement. This process can take a long time depending on factors like laboratory fabrication time, patient compliance with temporary crown wear, and the dentist’s schedule.

However, it is important to remember that a permanent crown is an essential component of root canal treatment, providing protection, stability, and aesthetic enhancement to ensure the procedure’s long-term success. Consult your dentist near you to learn about the specific timeline for placing a permanent crown and to discuss any concerns you may have.