A dental crown functions as a cap placed over a damaged tooth, restoring its shape, size, strength, and appearance. This restorative procedure helps protect a weak tooth from breaking or can cover discolored teeth. Following the placement of a dental crown, it is common to experience a period of adjustment as your mouth becomes accustomed to the new restoration. Understanding this normal adaptation process can help manage expectations.
Immediate Sensations After Placement
After a dental crown is cemented, you may notice several initial sensations. You might feel slight pressure or mild discomfort around the crowned tooth. The gums surrounding the tooth may also feel sore or irritated from the procedure.
Temporary sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures is common as the tooth and surrounding tissues adjust. The new crown can also feel slightly bulky or “different” compared to natural teeth. These initial feelings are temporary and part of the normal healing process.
Typical Adjustment Timeline
The time it takes to fully adjust to a new dental crown varies among individuals. For most people, the crown begins to feel like a natural part of their mouth within a few days to a couple of weeks. Some individuals may find the adjustment period extends up to two to four weeks before the crown feels completely normal.
Several factors influence this timeline, including the crown’s location; front teeth often require less adjustment than molars due to chewing pressure. The crown’s material (e.g., porcelain, metal, ceramic) also affects adaptation speed. The tooth’s original condition, including decay or nerve proximity, can also influence sensitivity and overall adjustment duration.
Understanding the “Different” Feeling
A new dental crown may feel “different” for several reasons, even if perfectly fitted. The crown can subtly alter your bite, affecting how your upper and lower teeth meet. Even a minor bite change can be noticeable, sometimes making the crown feel “high.”
The crown’s material also has a different texture than natural tooth enamel, which your sensitive tongue and cheeks will detect. Preparing the tooth for a crown involves removing some tooth structure, which can expose the underlying dentin and irritate nerves. This nerve irritation contributes to temporary sensitivity and the feeling of difference.
When to Contact Your Dentist
While some discomfort is expected, certain symptoms after crown placement warrant contacting your dentist. Contact your dentist if you experience severe or persistent pain, especially when biting, that does not subside after the initial adjustment period. Ongoing sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures lasting beyond a few weeks could indicate an issue.
A consistent feeling that your crown is too high, or if your bite feels significantly off after two weeks, also requires evaluation. Other concerning signs include swelling, redness, or pus around the crowned tooth, or if the crown feels loose. Ignoring these symptoms could lead to further complications, so prompt communication with your dental provider is important.
Tips for Adapting to Your New Crown
To facilitate a smoother adjustment to your new dental crown, consider these practices. Initially, stick to softer foods and avoid sticky, hard, or chewy items that might dislodge the crown or cause discomfort. Chewing on the opposite side of your mouth for the first few days can also ease the transition.
Maintain good oral hygiene; gently brush and floss around the crowned tooth to keep the area clean. If sensitivity occurs, a desensitizing toothpaste might provide relief. Be patient with the adjustment process, as your mouth needs time to adapt, and communicate any concerns with your dentist.