Some people may experience pain after a dental crown is placed. Although dental crowns are designed to protect a damaged tooth, they may still cause pain and become infected. However, despite the discomfort caused by pain under a crown, it can usually be eliminated after further treatment by a dentist.
What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a cap placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Dental crowns look and feel like natural teeth.
Crowns are most commonly used to restore teeth damaged by decay, infection, or trauma and to provide protection from further damage.
Crowns can be made from various materials, such as gold, porcelain and ceramic, zirconia, or metal alloys such as aluminum.
You may need a dental crown after root canal treatment to protect the tooth, or your dentist may recommend a crown if you have:
- a cavity that is too large to be restored with a filling;
- a cracked or weakened tooth;
- a missing tooth that needs to be replaced with a bridge or implant;
- discoloration or deformity of a tooth.
The crown placement process usually requires two dental visits. During the first appointment, the tooth is prepared for the crown and, if necessary, a temporary plastic crown is placed. During the second appointment, the permanent crown is installed.
Why Pain May Occur
It is normal to experience some discomfort after a dental crown is placed. When you consume food or drinks, they may irritate the sensitive area under the crown, causing discomfort, especially shortly after the procedure.
Severe or persistent pain requires treatment.
Below are some reasons why you may still feel pain under a crown.
Tooth Decay. Since the tooth under the crown is still “alive,” tooth decay or a new cavity may develop at the margin between the tooth and the crown. This may lead to persistent pain under the crown. If the cavity becomes large enough and affects the nerve, root canal treatment may be required.
Infection. If root canal treatment was not performed before crown placement, the tooth still contains nerves. Sometimes the crown puts pressure on an injured nerve, and infection may occur. Infections may also result from old fillings under the crown that allow bacteria to enter and infect the nerve.
Signs of infection include:
- pain when biting;
- gum swelling;
- sensitivity to hot and cold;
- fever.
Cracked Crown or Tooth Under the Crown. A crack in the crown or in the tooth under the crown may cause mild pain. Because of the crack, you may experience sensitivity to cold, heat, or air. If you notice that your crown is broken, loose, or cracked, contact your dentist.
Teeth Grinding. Teeth grinding may put pressure on the crown and the tooth, causing pain.
Gum Recession or Exposed Tooth Roots.
You may experience pain and sensitivity if the gums around the crowned tooth have receded and exposed part of the tooth root. Gum recession may be caused by aggressive tooth brushing. When gums recede, they become more vulnerable to plaque accumulation and gum disease.
Improperly Fitted Crown. If the crown does not fit properly, it may cause discomfort. Improper placement may also affect the bite. Pain when biting usually indicates that the crown is too high on the tooth. A dental crown should adapt to your bite the same way as your natural teeth. If your bite becomes incorrect, it may also lead to jaw pain and headaches.
Allergy to Crown Materials. Some patients may develop an allergic reaction to the materials used to make the crown.
Poor Oral Hygiene. Poor oral hygiene may lead to plaque accumulation and inflammation, which can cause pain under a crown.
Can a Tooth Hurt Under a Temporary Crown?
It is not uncommon for patients to experience discomfort under a temporary crown after the procedure. However, the pain should not last long and should decrease each day. Temporary crowns that cause discomfort may be loose, poorly fitted, or incorrectly sized.
How to Relieve Pain at Home
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever.
- Avoid very hot and cold foods, as they may increase sensitivity, and avoid chewing on the side where the crown is located.
- Apply something cold to the affected area to reduce swelling and relieve discomfort.
If your pain is occasional and occurs only when you eat or drink something acidic, it is most likely caused by tooth sensitivity. To relieve this type of pain, try using a desensitizing toothpaste or rinse your mouth with cold water after consuming acidic foods or drinks.
How to Prevent Pain Under a Dental Crown
The best way to prevent pain under a crown is to maintain good oral hygiene at home and visit your dentist regularly. Visible plaque accumulation should be removed daily to protect the tooth. It is also recommended to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
By consulting a dentist and describing your symptoms, it is possible to determine the source of pain and receive an effective treatment plan. Contact the specialists at YAREMA DENTAL Clinic if you experience pain under a dental crown.
This article does not replace a medical consultation. For complete and personalized information, please consult your dentist.