Dental crowns restore damaged or decayed teeth, offering structural support and improved appearance. While these restorations offer durability, many individuals experience some degree of tooth sensitivity following the procedure. This article clarifies what to expect regarding sensitivity after a dental crown, including its causes and typical duration.
Understanding Crown Sensitivity
Sensitivity after a dental crown arises from several factors related to the procedure. During tooth preparation, a layer of outer enamel is removed to create space for the crown, which can expose the underlying dentin. Dentin contains tiny tubules leading to the tooth’s nerve; when exposed, these allow stimuli like temperature changes to reach the nerve, causing sensitivity.
The tooth and surrounding tissues may also experience temporary inflammation as a reaction to dental work. Chemicals in dental cement can also irritate the tooth’s pulp, the innermost layer containing nerves and blood vessels. An improperly aligned bite, where the new crown makes premature contact or bears excessive force during chewing, can also contribute to sensitivity.
Expected Duration of Sensitivity
Mild tooth sensitivity after a dental crown is common and usually subsides within a few days to a couple of weeks. Some individuals may experience this sensitivity for up to six weeks. This initial period allows the tooth’s nerve and surrounding tissues to adjust to the new crown.
The duration of sensitivity is influenced by factors like the tooth’s initial health, such as whether a deep filling was replaced or significant decay was present. The extent of the dental work, including proximity of drilling to the nerve, also affects how long sensitivity lasts. Sensitivity should gradually decrease over time, indicating proper healing and adaptation.
When to Contact Your Dentist
While some sensitivity is normal, certain signs indicate you should contact your dentist. If sensitivity persists beyond a few weeks, worsens, or interferes with daily activities like eating or sleeping, it warrants attention. Sharp, shooting pain, especially when biting or chewing, also warrants a dental consultation.
Sensitivity to heat, unlike typical cold sensitivity, can signal a more serious underlying issue. Other concerning symptoms include swelling or redness around the crowned tooth or gums, or tooth pain accompanied by a fever. While waiting, temporary measures like over-the-counter pain relievers, sensitive toothpaste, and avoiding extreme temperatures or hard foods may offer relief.