A temporary dental crown is a provisional cap placed over a prepared tooth, protecting it until a permanent crown is ready. This interim restoration maintains the tooth’s position, safeguards sensitive underlying structures, and allows for normal chewing and speech. It also preserves the aesthetic appearance of your smile. While temporary crowns are a necessary part of the process, some discomfort or sensitivity is common.
Why Temporary Crowns Can Hurt
Discomfort from a temporary crown can arise from several factors. Preparing the tooth for a crown involves removing enamel and dentin, which can expose microscopic tubules, leading to increased sensitivity to temperature changes or pressure. The temporary crown’s edges or cement might also irritate surrounding gum tissue, causing soreness.
Sometimes, a temporary crown may be slightly higher than other teeth, creating an uneven bite that places excessive pressure on the tooth during chewing. This can cause pain when biting down or a general ache. If the temporary cement seal is not completely intact, oral bacteria can reach the prepared tooth, potentially causing sensitivity or irritation. Teeth grinding or clenching habits can also exert undue force on the temporary crown, contributing to pain.
At-Home Pain Relief Options
When experiencing pain from a temporary crown, several at-home strategies can help manage discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers are often effective in reducing pain and inflammation. Ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), can be taken in doses of 200-400 mg every four to six hours. It works by reducing inflammation.
Acetaminophen, a non-NSAID pain reliever, can also be used, with typical adult doses ranging from 325-650 mg every four to six hours. It is generally safe to alternate or combine ibuprofen and acetaminophen for more comprehensive pain relief, but always adhere to package instructions and consult a healthcare professional if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications. Applying a cold compress to the outside of the cheek over the affected area can help alleviate pain and swelling. Hold an ice pack wrapped in a cloth for 15-20 minute intervals, as the cold constricts blood vessels and numbs the area.
Rinsing your mouth with a warm saltwater solution can also provide relief. Dissolve about half a teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water and swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds. This helps cleanse the area, reduce inflammation, and promote healing of irritated gum tissues. For tooth sensitivity, applying a desensitizing toothpaste directly to the affected tooth can help block the microscopic tubules in the dentin, reducing nerve irritation.
Managing Your Temporary Crown
Proper care of your temporary crown helps prevent further pain and potential damage. It is advisable to avoid certain foods that could dislodge or break the temporary restoration. This includes sticky items like caramels or chewing gum, hard foods such as nuts, ice, or hard candies, and overly crunchy foods like popcorn. Chewy foods, including tough meats or crusty breads, should also be avoided, as they can pull on the crown.
When eating, chew on the opposite side of your mouth to minimize pressure on the crown. Be mindful of extreme temperatures, as very hot or cold foods and beverages can increase sensitivity. Maintain good oral hygiene around the temporary crown with a gentle approach. Brush the area carefully with a soft-bristled toothbrush. When flossing, gently slide the floss between teeth and then pull it out from the side rather than snapping it upwards.
When to Contact Your Dentist
While some discomfort with a temporary crown is normal, certain signs indicate you should contact your dentist. If you experience severe pain that does not improve with over-the-counter pain relievers or home remedies, or if the pain intensifies, it warrants professional attention. Persistent pain lasting more than a few days also suggests a need for evaluation.
Contact your dental office if your temporary crown becomes loose, shifts, or falls off completely. Leaving the prepared tooth exposed can lead to further sensitivity, damage, or shifting of adjacent teeth, potentially affecting the fit of your permanent crown. Other concerning symptoms include swelling in the gums or face, a fever, or a bad taste or foul odor in your mouth, as these could indicate an infection. A throbbing pain, especially when biting down, might also suggest an issue requiring a dentist’s assessment.