Do Dental Crowns Hurt? What to Expect Before and After

September 14, 2026
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Posted By: Dr. Kaysha Robinson

Getting a dental crown is one of the more common restorative procedures in dentistry. Even so, understanding what actually happens during the procedure, what it feels like, and what happens after can ease any unnecessary worry beforehand.

Thanks to local anesthesia and the non-invasive nature of the procedure, placing dental crowns in Louisville, KY, typically involves minimal discomfort. That said, mild soreness is possible for a couple of days afterward, as your mouth adjusts.

What Happens During the Procedure

Before any work begins, the treatment area is fully numbed with local anesthesia so you don’t feel any pain during the crown preparation. Dr. Kaysha Robinson then removes a tiny portion of the tooth's outer structure to make room for the crown. After this, we will take an impression or digital scan to create a custom restoration.

What to Expect Afterward

When the numbness wears off, a little bit of soreness or sensitivity for a couple of days is common. This is generally pretty mild and manageable with an ice pack or over-the-counter pain medication.

If you're waiting for a permanent crown to be custom-fabricated at a dental lab, you'll likely have to wear a temporary crown in the meantime. Temporary crowns can feel different from the final restoration, but provide sufficient protection while you wait.

When to Contact Your Dentist

While mild discomfort is expected, significant pain, prolonged sensitivity, or an ill-fitting crown are signs worth mentioning to your dentist promptly, rather than assuming it will resolve on its own.

Overall, the best way to know what to expect before, during, and after dental crown placement in Louisville is a conversation with your dentist.

Precisely Placed Dental Crowns in Louisville, KY

If you’re in South Louisville and have questions about what to expect from the dental crown placement procedure, contact Dr. Kaysha Robinson and the friendly and helpful Robinson Family Dental team to schedule an appointment.