After the tooth is prepared, the dentist takes an impression of the prepared tooth and nearby teeth. A medicated thread or cord may be used to separate the gum from the tooth, allowing a more accurate impression. The impression will be sent to the dental laboratory, where it will be used to make the crown. The dentist then places a temporary crown, which the patient will wear until the permanent crown is placed. Temporary crowns may be prefabricated or made from resin in the dental office. They do not last long, but keep the prepared tooth safe until the permanent crown is available.

Crowns are generally made in dental laboratories and may take several weeks. After the crown arrives, the dentist removes the temporary crown and checks the fit of the permanent crown. The dentist makes any necessary adjustments (e.g., polishing, glaze) and temporarily cements the crown onto the prepared tooth. The dentist also ensures that the patient’s bite is correct with the new crown. If the crown is comfortable and satisfactory to the patient, the crown will be permanently cemented. This may occur at a later date.

There is usually little or no discomfort after a crown has been placed, although some patients may experience some sensitivity to hot and cold. In some crowns (e.g., porcelain fused to metal crowns), a dark line may be visible along the gumline. This is a small, visible portion of the metal base of the crown. It is not noticeable in most cases.

If any additional problems arise, such as pain or sensitivity when biting down, patients are advised to speak with their dentist. Some issues can be fixed in the dental office in a single visit. Others may require replacement of the crown.

The multistep process of preparing a tooth for a crown and having the crown placed may take weeks. Researchers are investigating new techniques that may help to reduce this time, allowing dentists to place crowns much sooner after the tooth has been prepared.