A temporary crown is a provisional covering placed on a tooth prepared for a permanent restoration. It protects the underlying tooth from damage and sensitivity, prevents adjacent teeth from shifting, and maintains aesthetics until the permanent crown is ready. Some discomfort or sensitivity is common initially. However, any severe or persistent pain that does not subside should be promptly evaluated by a dental professional.
Common Reasons for Discomfort
Tooth preparation removes the protective enamel, exposing underlying dentin. This can lead to increased sensitivity to temperature changes, like hot or cold foods, or even air currents. Temporary crown material may not insulate as well as a permanent restoration, contributing to this heightened sensitivity.
Preparing the tooth and placing the temporary crown can irritate surrounding gum tissue. The crown’s margin might gently press against the gum line, leading to soreness or mild inflammation. This irritation typically resolves as tissues adapt to the provisional restoration within a few days. Maintaining good oral hygiene around the temporary crown can help minimize it.
Slight variations in the temporary crown’s height can affect your bite. If it’s marginally higher than surrounding teeth, it creates uneven pressure when biting. This can cause discomfort or a sensation of the bite feeling “off.” Minor adjustments by the dentist may be necessary to correct it, which usually improves comfort.
The dental procedure can induce a temporary inflammatory response within the tooth’s pulp. This inflammation, sometimes called reversible pulpitis, can result in a dull ache or mild throbbing, especially if the tooth had a deep cavity or previous trauma. This discomfort is typically self-limiting and subsides as the pulp recovers within a few days to a week.
Managing Expected Discomfort
Over-the-counter pain relievers can manage mild to moderate discomfort from a new temporary crown. Medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can alleviate soreness and reduce inflammation. Always follow dosage instructions for safe and effective pain management.
Modifying your diet can reduce stress on the temporary crown and underlying tooth. Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods, as these can dislodge the crown or place excessive pressure on the sensitive tooth. Chewing on the opposite side of your mouth also helps protect the provisional restoration.
Sensitivity to extreme temperatures is common after tooth preparation. To mitigate this, avoid very hot or very cold foods and beverages, which can trigger sharp pain. Allow hot drinks to cool or use a straw for cold beverages to bypass direct contact with the sensitive tooth.
Maintain good oral hygiene around the temporary crown to prevent gum irritation and promote comfort. Gently brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush around the crown and gum line to remove plaque without trauma. When flossing, carefully slide the floss down and pull it through from the side, rather than snapping it up, to prevent dislodgement. This expected discomfort typically subsides within a few days to a week as the tooth and surrounding tissues adapt.
When to Seek Dental Attention
If discomfort from your temporary crown progresses into severe, throbbing pain that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter pain relievers, or persists for more than a few days, seek professional evaluation. This intense pain could signify a deeper inflammatory process or infection within the tooth’s pulp. Persistent pain disrupting sleep or daily activities is a clear signal for a dental visit.
Sharp, localized pain when biting down, especially if it feels like a “high spot,” suggests the temporary crown is interfering with your bite. This persistent pressure can lead to discomfort, potential damage to the crown, or even tooth trauma. A quick adjustment by your dentist can relieve the pressure and restore proper bite.
Swelling in the gums around the temporary crown, or extending to the face, especially with a fever, points to a possible infection. These symptoms indicate an inflammatory process that may require antibiotic treatment or other dental intervention. Ignoring these signs can lead to more significant complications, so prompt attention is advisable.
If the temporary crown feels loose, shifts when you chew, or comes off, the prepared tooth is exposed. A dislodged crown can lead to increased sensitivity, unwanted tooth movement, or damage to the underlying tooth structure. Contact your dentist immediately for re-cementation or replacement to protect the tooth.