Any dentist will tell you it usually takes about two visits to install a dental crown, with trips to the office two weeks apart from each other. Upon your first visit, your tooth will be shaped trimmed away so it is the optimal size and shape to receive a crown; while also removing any decay. In addition, your dentist will take an impression of your tooth so the model can be sent away, a cast can be formed, and the crown can be manufactured. Ensuring you don’t leave the office with an exposed shaved tooth, you will be fitted with a temporary crown, usually made of plastic, until your permanent crown is ready to be affixed, which typically takes around two weeks’ time.
The rest of the process? Like the initial stages, it is quite painless. If required, you can be numbed, but many patients are able to proceed pain-free and comfortable without anesthetics. You will then try on your new, permanent dental crown, and your dentist will evaluate the fit before permanently affixing it to your tooth. It is at this time that you will have a chance to play a part in the process by evaluating just how well your new dental crown matches and blends in with the other teeth and if it is up to your standards. Once all is agreed upon, your crown is cemented in place, covering all evidence that you ever had a problem tooth to begin with.