Dental crowns offer a great solution to those worried about the condition of their teeth. These prosthetic tooth-shaped caps are long-lasting and can effectively tackle old, worn down, damaged, chipped, or discoloured teeth.
Dental crown technology has developed significantly in recent years. A recent study showed that single crowns fitted on top of a natural tooth had a success rate of 94%. That being said, it’s understandable that many patients still feel anxious about the prospect of having a dental crown fitted. But, by following a few straightforward pre-operative steps, you can help to ensure that your treatment journey runs as smoothly as possible.
Please note that this dental crowns pre-op guide aims to give you useful information on how to best prepare for your treatment. Our guidelines are not intended to replace any medical advice provided to you by your dentist.
Dental Crowns Pre-Op: Getting Ready For Treatment
One benefit of dental crowns is that there isn’t much preparation that you need to do before heading off for treatment. But, there’s a couple of important do’s and don’ts that can help to make sure that your treatment runs stress-free.
The guidance that we have provided below is relevant to all types of dental crowns – whether it be metal, zirconia, or porcelain-fused – and highlights common recommendations from reputable dentists. But, we also recommend discussing any pre-treatment instructions with your dentist before your treatment.
Dental Crown Pre-Op Don’ts
Avoid smoking for 24 hours before your treatment.
Why? Nicotine can increase the risk of infection during this dental treatment.
Don’t drink alcohol for 24 hours before your treatment.
Why? Alcohol acts as what’s known as a vasodilator. Simply put, this means that it opens blood vessels which can cause an increased amount of bleeding during your treatment.
Aspirin or any medications containing aspirin should be avoided for a week before having your crowns fitted.
Why? Aspirin can also dilute the blood, potentially leading to an increased amount of bleeding during the procedure.
Dental Crown Pre-Op Do’s
Tell your dentist about any allergies or health conditions that you have.
Provide your dentist with a list of regular medications that you take.
Inform your dentist if you’re experiencing cold or flu-like symptoms in the days running up to your treatment.
Eat a small breakfast on the day of your treatment.
Dental Crowns Pre-Op Checklist
Whether you choose to travel abroad for your treatment or have it done in the UK, there are a few important points to bear in mind.
✔ On the day of your treatment, wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes and comfortable shoes.
✔ If you’re travelling abroad and planning to buy any medication, consider adding a checked-in bag as you won’t be able to carry them in your hand luggage.
✔ Make sure that your passport has at least six months of validity. This is especially important now for UK citizens travelling within the EU following Brexit.
✔ Print off your booking confirmation and your emergency contact details before travelling.
✔ Remember to pack any relevant medical records or test results.
✔ Bring a city guide if you’re planning to explore the surroundings before or after your treatment.
✔ Double-check your local governmental authority website about any new travel advice or visa requirements.
✔ If you’re going to be paying with a credit card abroad, make sure that you let your bank know that you’re going to be carrying out transactions overseas.
Planning Your Dental Crowns Treatment Together With Qunomedical
At Qunomedical, we take a patient-first approach to healthcare, with no exceptions. We’re here to support you throughout your entire treatment journey, from pre-op planning to post-op recovery.
✔ 100% free, non-binding assessment: We offer a 100% free, non-binding assessment to every patient that approaches Qunomedical.
✔ World-renowned dentists: Our unique scoring system, Qunoscore, assesses dentists on over 20 data points, including qualifications, experience, accreditations, and reviews from past patients.