A temporary crown is essentially an “interim crown” that is put over top of the natural tooth while a permanent crown is being fabricated. Typically, you will have the temporary crown for about 2-3 weeks depending on how long the permanent crown takes to be made. During this time, the temporary is to protect the natural tooth structure so that nothing feels sensitive, uncomfortable and that you have a fully functioning tooth.
With this being said, the way the “crown” appointment works is just like it would if you were receiving a permanent same-day-crown. You would be seated in the dental chair and be given a local anesthetic by the dentist. In this way, the nerves of the face that directly correspond with the tooth being worked on will be numb so that you won’t feel any pain or discomfort from the tooth while it is being drilled. The dentist after testing the area, to make sure that you are adequately numb will “prepare” the tooth for its crown or cap that will fit directly over top to restore the tooth’s original shape and size. After this step, the temporary crown will be made and adjusted accordingly so that it fits with the adjacent teeth properly. You’ll most likely be asked to bite down on carbon (black) paper that shows marks so that the dentist can see how your teeth come together. Once the bite looks just right, the dentist will use a temporary cement to keep the temporary crown in place until it can be taken off for the permanent.
Therefore, to answer the question, a dentist will have you “numb” while placing a temporary crown. If being “numb” is something you are concerned with, please let us know and we will make sure to cater your treatment to this. We understand it can be an uncomfortable feeling but we will get you through it!
For any other questions regarding temporary or permanent crowns, please visit our website for more information.
