A temporary crown is a protective cap placed over a prepared tooth while a permanent dental restoration is being manufactured. This cover seals the exposed, sensitive inner layers of the tooth and maintains the space between teeth. While mild sensitivity is common, sudden or sharp pain when biting or chewing requires investigation. This discomfort is usually a mechanical issue related to the crown’s fit or the condition of the underlying tooth structure.
Specific Reasons for Pain When Chewing
The most frequent mechanical cause of pain upon pressure is a “high bite,” or an issue with occlusion. This occurs when the temporary crown is marginally taller than the surrounding natural teeth, causing premature contact during chewing. The excessive force from this uneven contact is transmitted directly down the tooth root, straining the periodontal ligament and resulting in pain.
This pressure-related discomfort can also signal irritation of the dental pulp (the nerve and blood vessel center of the tooth). The preparation process, which involves drilling away damaged enamel and dentin, can cause inflammation in the pulp tissue. When pressure from chewing is applied, it compresses this inflamed tissue, leading to a sharp, painful sensation.
Another possibility is a compromise of the crown’s seal against the tooth. Temporary crowns are held in place with a weaker cement designed for easy removal, which can wash away or fail. If the seal is lost, debris and bacteria can leak underneath the crown and irritate the exposed dentin, causing discomfort when biting. The temporary crown material is also weaker than a permanent one, making it susceptible to fracturing or cracking. If the material cracks, the crown can shift slightly under chewing force, exposing the prepared tooth.
Immediate Steps for Managing Pain at Home
While awaiting a dental appointment, modifying your diet is the most immediate step for managing pain. Restrict your intake to soft foods that require minimal biting force, such as mashed potatoes, yogurt, or scrambled eggs. Also, chew exclusively on the opposite side of the mouth to prevent direct pressure on the affected tooth.
Over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, can help manage discomfort by reducing localized inflammation. Taking a dose approximately 30 minutes before a meal can help mitigate the pressure pain associated with eating.
Because the temporary crown material is thinner, some patients experience heightened sensitivity to temperature. Temporarily avoiding extremely hot or cold beverages and foods near the affected area can prevent additional discomfort. If the crown has a sharp edge irritating the cheek or tongue, apply temporary dental wax or petroleum jelly to smooth the surface. Rinsing the mouth several times a day with a warm saltwater solution can also soothe irritated gum tissue.
Professional Fixes and Urgent Warning Signs
If at-home measures do not resolve the pain, professional intervention is necessary. For a “high bite,” the dentist uses articulating paper (a thin, colored film) to mark the point of premature contact. They then use a low-speed handpiece to file or adjust the crown until the pressure is evenly distributed, often providing instant relief.
If the temporary crown is loose or has fallen off, the dentist will clean the prepared tooth surface and the inside of the crown before re-cementing it. If the crown is fractured beyond repair, the dental team will fabricate a new one to protect the tooth until the permanent restoration is ready. If pulp irritation is severe, the dentist may apply a desensitizing agent or evaluate the tooth for a root canal procedure.
Certain symptoms indicate a more serious issue requiring immediate contact with the dental office. Urgent warning signs include severe, persistent, throbbing pain, especially if it wakes you up at night. Swelling of the gum tissue around the crown or extending into the face or jaw suggests a possible infection or abscess. If the temporary crown falls off completely, immediate recementation is necessary, as the tooth is vulnerable to damage and bacteria.