A dental crown procedure typically requires two appointments over two to three weeks. Understanding each step helps patients feel prepared and reduces anxiety. For a complete overview of crown types and materials, see our subpillar article: Dental Crowns: Materials, Procedure, and What Patients Should Know. You may also want to read our pillar article: Your Complete Guide to Dental Care in Baton Rouge. For signs you might need a crown, see our guide: Signs You Might Need a Dental Crown.
Table of Contents
First Appointment | Tooth Preparation | Impressions | Temporary Crown | Between Visits | Second Appointment | Cementation | FAQs
Key Takeaways (TL;DR)
- A dental crown requires two appointments over 2–3 weeks. The first appointment prepares the tooth and takes impressions. The second appointment cements the permanent crown.
- Tooth preparation involves numbing and reducing the tooth. The dentist removes enough structure to accommodate the crown thickness while preserving healthy tooth structure.
- A temporary crown protects the prepared tooth between visits. The temporary is cemented with temporary cement and is more fragile than the permanent crown.
- Patients should avoid sticky and hard foods on the temporary crown. The temporary can dislodge or fracture if subjected to excessive force.
- The second appointment involves try-in, bite adjustment, and permanent cementation. The dentist verifies fit, color, contour, and bite before permanently cementing the crown.
The Dental Crown Procedure: Two Appointments, One Restoration
A dental crown procedure follows a standard two-appointment sequence. The first appointment prepares the tooth and captures the information needed for the laboratory to fabricate the crown. The second appointment delivers and cements the permanent crown. The two appointments are typically scheduled 2–3 weeks apart to allow time for the laboratory to fabricate the restoration.
Dr. Justin Bonaventure follows this sequence for most patients at Bonaventure Dental Care. For patients with dental anxiety, sedation options including nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and IV sedation are available to ensure comfort during both appointments. Residents of Baton Rouge, St. George, Shenandoah, and Old Jefferson can expect a consistent, predictable procedure from start to finish.
Some practices offer same-day crowns using CAD/CAM technology. The traditional two-visit approach remains the standard because it allows for more material options and more precise laboratory fabrication. Dr. Bonaventure discusses both options with patients and recommends the approach that best suits the individual case.
First Appointment: Tooth Preparation and Numbing
Tooth preparation begins with local anesthesia. Dr. Bonaventure administers a local anesthetic to numb the tooth and surrounding gum tissue. Patients who receive sedation remain relaxed but are still given local anesthesia to ensure complete comfort during the procedure. The numbing sensation typically lasts 2–4 hours after the appointment.
After the tooth is numb, Dr. Bonaventure reduces the tooth on all surfaces. The amount of reduction depends on the crown material:
- For porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns: The tooth is reduced by approximately 1.5–2.0 millimeters on the chewing surface and 1.0–1.5 millimeters on the sides.
- For all-ceramic and zirconia crowns: The tooth is reduced by approximately 1.5–2.5 millimeters on the chewing surface and 1.0–1.5 millimeters on the sides. Zirconia requires more occlusal reduction because it is a thicker material.
- For E.max crowns: The tooth is reduced by approximately 1.5–2.0 millimeters on the chewing surface and 1.0–1.5 millimeters on the sides.
The reduction creates a uniform foundation for the crown. The tooth is shaped with a slight taper to allow the crown to slide over it. The margins (the edge where the crown meets the tooth) are placed at or slightly below the gumline to ensure a good seal and prevent decay. Dr. Bonaventure uses a dental dam or retraction cord to access the subgingival margin when needed.
If the tooth has significant decay or an old filling, Dr. Bonaventure removes the decay and places a core buildup. The core buildup rebuilds the foundation of the tooth so the crown has adequate support. This step adds approximately 15–30 minutes to the procedure but is essential for long-term crown success.
First Appointment: Impressions and Shade Selection
After the tooth is prepared, Dr. Bonaventure takes an impression of the prepared tooth and the opposing teeth. The impression captures the shape, contour, and relationship of the teeth. The laboratory uses the impression to fabricate a crown that fits precisely.
Two types of impressions are used:
- Traditional impression: A tray filled with impression material (alginate or polyvinyl siloxane) is placed over the teeth. The material sets in 3–5 minutes. The tray is then removed, and the impression is sent to the laboratory.
- Digital impression (intraoral scanning): A handheld scanner captures thousands of images of the teeth. The images are merged into a 3D digital model. The digital file is sent electronically to the laboratory. Digital impressions are more comfortable for patients and eliminate the need for impression material and trays.
Dr. Bonaventure uses digital impressions when available to improve patient comfort and accuracy. The scan takes 2–3 minutes per arch. Patients with a strong gag reflex may find digital impressions more tolerable than traditional impressions. For patients who require sedation, the digital scan is performed while the patient is relaxed.
Shade selection is performed before the temporary crown is placed. Dr. Bonaventure matches the crown to the adjacent teeth under natural and artificial light. The shade is recorded and sent to the laboratory. Patients who are having teeth whitening performed should have the whitening completed before the crown is fabricated so the crown can match the final shade.
First Appointment: Temporary Crown Fabrication
A temporary crown protects the prepared tooth between the first and second appointments. The temporary is fabricated at the chairside using a preformed crown form or a stent. Temporary crown material is placed over the prepared tooth and shaped to approximate the final crown’s contour.
The temporary crown is cemented with temporary cement. The temporary cement is weaker than permanent cement, which allows the temporary to be easily removed at the second appointment. The temporary crown is less durable than the permanent crown and is more susceptible to fracture, discoloration, and dislodgment.
A properly made temporary crown should:
- Cover the prepared tooth completely
- Have smooth margins that do not trap food
- Contact the adjacent teeth properly
- Have a functional bite that does not cause pain
- Match the approximate contour and shape of the final crown
Dr. Bonaventure checks the temporary crown for fit, contour, and bite before releasing the patient. Patients are given instructions for temporary crown care, including dietary restrictions and oral hygiene modifications.
Between Appointments: Care for the Temporary Crown
The 2–3 weeks between appointments require specific care to protect the temporary crown and the underlying tooth. The temporary crown is not as strong as the permanent crown, and it can be dislodged or fractured if not treated carefully.
Dietary Restrictions
- Avoid sticky foods: Caramels, taffy, gum, and other sticky foods can pull the temporary crown off the tooth.
- Avoid hard foods: Nuts, hard candy, ice, and popcorn kernels can fracture the temporary crown.
- Avoid chewy foods: Chewy bread, steak, and other tough foods can stress the temporary crown and cause it to loosen.
- Chew on the opposite side: Whenever possible, chew on the side of the mouth that does not have the temporary crown.
Oral Hygiene Modifications
- Brush gently: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently around the temporary crown. Do not pull the bristles across the margin.
- Floss carefully: Floss normally, but pull the floss out from the side rather than snapping it out from between the teeth. Snapping the floss out can pull the temporary crown off.
- Avoid electric toothbrushes: Electric toothbrushes can vibrate the temporary crown and loosen the cement.
- Use a fluoride rinse: A fluoride mouthwash helps protect the tooth, especially if the temporary crown is not sealed perfectly.
If the temporary crown comes off, do not attempt to recement it with household adhesives or super glue. Call Bonaventure Dental Care immediately for an appointment. The office will recement the temporary crown using temporary cement. Do not wait until the scheduled second appointment, as the tooth may shift or become sensitive.
Second Appointment: Try-In and Verification
The second appointment begins with removal of the temporary crown. Dr. Bonaventure uses a crown remover or forceps to gently dislodge the temporary crown. The temporary cement breaks, and the temporary crown slides off. Any remaining temporary cement is cleaned from the tooth.
The permanent crown is then tried in on the tooth. Dr. Bonaventure evaluates multiple parameters:
- Fit: The crown should seat fully with no gaps visible at the margin. The crown should not rock or move when pressure is applied.
- Margins: The edge of the crown should meet the tooth with a smooth, continuous transition. An open margin allows bacteria to enter and causes decay.
- Contour: The crown should match the shape of the adjacent teeth. Overcontoured crowns trap plaque and food. Undercontoured crowns look unnatural and may not function properly.
- Contact points: The crown should touch the adjacent teeth with appropriate pressure. Too loose, and food packs between the teeth. Too tight, and the patient experiences pressure and potential nerve irritation.
- Shade: The crown color should match the adjacent teeth under different lighting conditions.
Dr. Bonaventure checks the bite using articulating paper. Patients are asked to bite down on the paper, and the marks indicate where the crown contacts the opposing teeth. Adjustments are made to ensure an even bite. The bite should be balanced so all teeth touch simultaneously.
Second Appointment: Permanent Cementation
Once all parameters are verified, Dr. Bonaventure cements the permanent crown. The cementation procedure follows these steps:
- Isolation: The tooth is isolated using cotton rolls or a dental dam to keep the area dry. Moisture can interfere with cement adhesion.
- Cement selection: The appropriate cement is selected based on the crown material and the clinical situation. Resin cements are used for all-ceramic crowns that are bonded. Glass ionomer or resin-modified glass ionomer cements are used for PFM and some all-ceramic crowns.
- Cement placement: Cement is placed inside the crown. The crown is then seated on the tooth and held in place with firm pressure for 30–60 seconds while the cement sets.
- Excess cement removal: Any cement that extrudes from the margin is removed with an explorer or scaler. Floss is used to remove interproximal cement.
- Final bite check: The bite is checked again after the cement has set. Small adjustments can be made if the bite feels uneven.
After cementation, the patient is advised not to eat or drink for at least one hour to allow the cement to fully set. The permanent crown does not require special dietary restrictions beyond standard precautions, but patients are advised to avoid extremely hard foods that could damage the porcelain.
Crown Procedure Timeline: From Start to Finish
| Appointment | Step | Duration | What Happens |
|---|---|---|---|
| First (Day 1) | Numbing | 5–10 min | Local anesthetic is administered |
| First (Day 1) | Tooth preparation | 30–45 min | Tooth is reduced; core buildup if needed |
| First (Day 1) | Impressions | 10–15 min | Digital scan or traditional impression; shade selection |
| First (Day 1) | Temporary crown | 15–20 min | Temporary fabricated and cemented |
| Between visits | Laboratory fabrication | 10–15 business days | Crown fabricated in dental laboratory |
| Second (Day 14–21) | Temporary removal | 5–10 min | Temporary crown is removed |
| Second (Day 14–21) | Crown try-in | 15–20 min | Fit, contour, shade, and bite are verified |
| Second (Day 14–21) | Cementation | 15–20 min | Crown is permanently cemented; final bite check |
Frequently Asked Questions About the Crown Procedure
Q: Does getting a dental crown hurt?
A: The procedure does not hurt during the appointment because local anesthesia numbs the tooth and surrounding tissues. Some patients experience mild discomfort or sensitivity after the numbness wears off, but this typically resolves within a few days. For anxious patients, Dr. Bonaventure offers sedation options.
Q: How long does each appointment take?
A: The first appointment typically takes 60–90 minutes. The second appointment takes 30–60 minutes. The duration depends on whether the tooth needs a core buildup, how many crowns are being placed, and whether the patient requires sedation.
Q: Can I drive after the appointment?
A: If you receive only local anesthesia, you can drive yourself to and from the appointment. If you receive oral or IV sedation, you must have a driver. Dr. Bonaventure provides specific instructions based on the sedation type used.
Q: What should I do if my temporary crown falls off?
A: Call Bonaventure Dental Care immediately to schedule a recementation appointment. Do not attempt to recement it yourself. Keep the temporary crown in a safe place. The tooth may be sensitive if the temporary crown is off for more than 24 hours.
Q: How soon can I eat normally after the crown is cemented?
A: You can eat soft foods immediately after the numbness wears off. Wait at least one hour after cementation before eating or drinking to allow the cement to set. After that, you can resume your normal diet. Avoid extremely hard foods that could damage the crown.
People Also Ask About the Crown Procedure in Baton Rouge
How long does the dental crown procedure take from start to finish? The entire process takes 2–3 weeks from the first appointment to the second appointment. The laboratory fabrication time is the longest part of the process.
Are there same-day crown options at Bonaventure Dental Care? Dr. Bonaventure offers both traditional and same-day crown options. Same-day crowns are fabricated using chairside CAD/CAM technology and are completed in a single visit. Not all materials or cases are suitable for same-day fabrication.
What is a core buildup and when is it needed? A core buildup replaces missing tooth structure to create a solid foundation for the crown. It is needed when the tooth has lost significant structure due to decay, fracture, or removal of old fillings.
Can I have a crown placed if I have dental anxiety? Yes. Dr. Bonaventure offers multiple sedation options including nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and IV sedation. Patients with dental anxiety can complete the entire crown procedure comfortably.
How many appointments are needed for multiple crowns? Multiple crowns can be completed in the same number of appointments. The first appointment prepares all teeth and takes impressions. The second appointment cements all crowns. The appointments are longer, but the number of visits is the same.
People Also Search For
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About Dr. Justin K. Bonaventure
Dr. Justin Bonaventure is the owner and lead dentist at Bonaventure Dental Care in Baton Rouge, LA. He has extensive experience in restorative procedures, including the preparation, fabrication, and cementation of dental crowns. A former president of the Greater Baton Rouge Dental Association and active member of the American Dental Association, Dr. Bonaventure prioritizes patient comfort and procedural accuracy. He serves patients across St. George, Shenandoah, Old Jefferson, Oak Hills Place, and the Tiger Bend corridor, offering sedation options to ensure a comfortable experience throughout the crown procedure.
Sources & References
- American Dental Association (ADA). “Crowns.” ada.org
- Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry. “Clinical Procedures for Fabricating Crowns.” (2022)
- National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR). “Dental Crowns.” nidcr.nih.gov
- Bonaventure Dental Care. “Dental Crowns in Baton Rouge, LA.” bonaventuredental.com
The Crown Procedure Is Predictable When You Know What to Expect
A dental crown procedure is a predictable, well-established process. The two-appointment sequence allows for precise, customized restorations that match your natural teeth in color, contour, and function. Knowing what to expect at each step reduces anxiety and helps you prepare appropriately.
For patients in Baton Rouge, St. George, Shenandoah, Old Jefferson, and Oak Hills Place, Dr. Bonaventure guides you through the process with clear explanations and comfortable care.
Ready to Schedule Your Crown Appointment?
Call Bonaventure Dental Care to schedule your consultation. We explain every step and answer all your questions.
📍 13431 Tiger Bend Rd, Baton Rouge, LA 70817 | 📞 (225) 753-0123
Return to the subpillar article: Dental Crowns: Materials, Procedure, and What Patients Should Know | Read our guide on signs you need a crown: Signs You Might Need a Dental Crown | Read our pillar article: Your Complete Guide to Dental Care in Baton Rouge
Last reviewed: July 2026
