A temporary crown is a protective cap placed over a tooth prepared for a permanent restoration. This interim measure guards the underlying tooth structure and prevents surrounding teeth from shifting while the final crown is being custom-fabricated. Mild and transient sensitivity in the affected tooth is common following placement. This brief discomfort is a normal response to the dental work and should resolve within a few days to a couple of weeks.
Understanding Why Sensitivity Happens
Sensitivity occurs because preparing the tooth requires removing the protective enamel layer to make space for the crown. This preparation exposes the underlying dentin, which is highly porous. Dentin contains millions of microscopic channels, known as dentinal tubules, that lead directly to the tooth’s nerve center (the pulp). When external stimuli, such as temperature changes or air, cause fluid movement inside these tubules, the nerve registers this pressure change as sensitivity or pain.
The temporary cement used to hold the crown also contributes to sensitivity. This cement is deliberately less adhesive and more porous than the materials used for the final crown, allowing for easy removal later. This weaker seal means the prepared tooth is less insulated from the oral environment and external temperature fluctuations. The cement itself can sometimes irritate the tooth’s nerve as it cures, contributing to the initial discomfort.
Sometimes, the temporary crown may not perfectly match the bite alignment immediately after placement. A crown that sits slightly too high causes excessive pressure when biting down, a condition known as traumatic occlusion. This pressure irritates the tooth’s ligament and nerve, causing sensitivity noticeable during chewing. Minor adjustments may be needed to ensure the crown does not bear the brunt of the biting force.
Immediate Steps for Managing Mild Discomfort
Managing mild sensitivity involves simple adjustments to your diet and oral hygiene routine. Avoid consuming foods and beverages that are extremely hot, cold, or highly acidic, such as ice cream, coffee, or citrus fruits. These temperature and chemical extremes are the most likely triggers for the exposed dentin. Soft, lukewarm foods are less likely to cause a reaction from the tooth.
Adjusting how you clean the area around the temporary crown is important for reducing irritation and preventing dislodgement. When flossing, gently slide the floss between the teeth. Instead of pulling it upward, pull the floss out sideways from under the contact point. This technique prevents the floss from snagging the crown’s edge and pulling it loose. Brushing gently around the crown minimizes irritation to the gum tissue.
Desensitizing toothpaste, containing compounds like potassium nitrate, helps block pain signals from the tooth surface to the nerve. Applying a small amount directly to the crown and surrounding area can provide localized relief. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can also manage temporary discomfort. Always adhere strictly to the dosage instructions provided on the packaging.
Recognizing Signs of Serious Issues
While mild, transient sensitivity is normal, certain types of pain and symptoms indicate a need for immediate professional attention. Pain that is sharp, continuous, or throbbing suggests a more significant problem, such as inflammation of the pulp (pulpitis) or an infection. If the pain lingers for more than a minute after the stimulus is removed, or if it is severe enough to wake you up at night, contact your dental office immediately.
The presence of swelling or other systemic symptoms should not be ignored. Localized swelling of the gum tissue around the crown, facial swelling, or a fever may signal an active infection or abscess formation. A foul taste or odor coming from the temporary crown area is another sign of potential bacterial infiltration requiring prompt evaluation.
The temporary crown is vulnerable and can sometimes dislodge or crack, which exposes the underlying prepared tooth structure completely. If the temporary crown falls off, the tooth is left unprotected and can become extremely sensitive to all stimuli. Contact your dentist right away, and if possible, keep the crown and attempt to temporarily re-seat it using over-the-counter dental cement or petroleum jelly until you can be seen. Persistent issues with your bite, where the crown still feels too high after 24 to 48 hours, also require an adjustment from your dentist.