Some people may experience pain after a crown is placed. Although dental crowns are designed to protect a damaged tooth, they can still cause pain and infection. However, while the pain under the crown is uncomfortable, it can usually be resolved with further treatment by a dentist.
What are dental crowns?
A dental crown is a cap that is placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Dental crowns look and feel just like your natural tooth. Crowns are most often used to restore teeth that have been damaged by decay, infection, or trauma, and provide protection from further damage.
Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, such as gold, porcelain and ceramic, zirconia, or alloys such as aluminum.
You may need a dental crown after root canal treatment to protect your tooth, or your dentist may recommend a crown if you have:
- a cavity in your tooth that is too large to be filled with a filling;
- a tooth that is cracked or weakened;
- a missing tooth that needs to be replaced with a bridge or implant;
- a tooth that is discolored or deformed.
The crowning process usually takes two visits to the dentist. During the first visit, the tooth is prepared for the crown and, if necessary, a temporary plastic crown is placed. During the second visit, the permanent crown is placed.
Why it may hurt
It is normal to feel some discomfort after a dental crown is placed. When you eat or drink, it can irritate this sensitive area under the crown, causing discomfort, especially after the procedure.
Severe or persistent pain requires treatment.
Here are some reasons why you may still feel pain under the crown.
Cavities. Because the tooth under the crown is “alive,” a cavity or new cavity can develop at the interface between the tooth and the crown. This can lead to ongoing pain under the crown. If the cavity in the tooth becomes large enough to affect the nerve, you may need root canal treatment and nerve removal.
Infection. If you did not have a root canal before getting a crown, the tooth still has nerves. Sometimes the crown presses on the injured nerve, and infection occurs. Infections can be caused by old fillings under the crown, which allow bacteria to enter the nerve.
Signs of infection include:
- pain when biting;
- swollen gums;
- sensitivity to hot and cold;
- fever.
A crack in the crown or in the tooth under the crown can cause mild pain. You may be sensitive to cold, heat, or air because of the crack. If you notice that your crown is broken, loose, or cracked, see your doctor.
Teeth grinding, which puts pressure on the crown and tooth.
Gum recession or exposed tooth roots. You may experience pain and sensitivity if the gums around a tooth with a crown have receded and exposed part of the tooth root. Gum recession can be caused by things like hard brushing. When gums recede, they are more susceptible to plaque buildup and gum disease.
Crown that is not properly fitted or fitted. If the crown doesn’t fit properly, it can cause discomfort. Improper fitting can also affect your bite. Pain when biting down usually means that the crown is too high on the tooth. A dental crown should conform to your bite, just like your other teeth. If your bite is misaligned, it can also lead to jaw pain and headaches.
Allergies to the materials the crown is made of.
Poor oral hygiene.
Can a tooth hurt under a temporary crown
It is not uncommon for a patient to feel discomfort under a temporary crown after the procedure. However, the pain should not last long and should decrease with each passing day. Temporary crowns that cause discomfort may be loose, ill-fitting, or the wrong size.
How to relieve pain at home
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever.
- Avoid eating very hot or cold foods, as this can increase sensitivity, and do not chew on the side of your mouth where the crown is.
- Place something cold on the painful area to reduce swelling and relieve discomfort.
If your pain is intermittent and only occurs when you eat or drink something acidic, it is most likely due to tooth sensitivity. To relieve this type of pain, try using a desensitizing toothpaste or rinsing your mouth with cold water after consuming acidic foods.
How to Prevent Tooth Pain
The best way to prevent tooth pain is to practice good oral hygiene at home and visit your dentist frequently. Visible plaque buildup should be removed daily to protect your tooth. You should also use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
By visiting your dentist and telling them about your symptoms, you can determine the source of your pain and get an effective treatment plan. Contact the specialists at YAREMA DENTAL if you have tooth pain under your crown.