The process of getting a dental crown requires two appointments, during which a temporary crown is placed to protect the prepared tooth structure while the permanent restoration is being made. These temporary caps, typically made of acrylic or resin, often feel different or “weird” when biting down because they are not custom-made to the exact specifications of the final tooth. This sensation is usually due to minor mechanical issues or normal biological adjustments your mouth is making.
Common Reasons the Bite Feels Off
The most frequent cause of a strange sensation when biting is an issue with occlusion, which means how your upper and lower teeth meet. If the temporary crown is slightly higher than the surrounding teeth, it creates a “high spot” that registers as premature contact when you close your jaw. This unequal pressure places undue force on the tooth and the ligaments that hold it in the jawbone, leading to discomfort or a feeling of imbalance.
Temporary crowns are either prefabricated or quickly fabricated chairside, meaning their contour and shape rarely match the exact anatomy of the final tooth. When your tongue or opposing teeth interact with this different surface, it can feel bulky or unnatural. The materials used are also less rigid than permanent porcelain or metal, contributing to the odd sensation.
Temporary crowns are secured with a weak, easily removable cement so they can be taken off without damaging the underlying tooth. This adhesive is not meant to be permanent and can sometimes wash out or shift slightly, allowing the crown a minuscule amount of mobility. Even slight movement, which would not be noticeable with permanent cement, can be interpreted as a feeling of looseness when pressure is applied during biting.
Sensitivity and Gum Irritation
Beyond mechanical fit issues, discomfort can arise from the biological response of the tooth and surrounding tissues to the procedure. The underlying tooth preparation involves removing structure, which can irritate the pulp or nerve tissue. Consequently, the tooth may exhibit sensitivity to temperature changes or pressure for the first few days.
The margin, or edge, of the temporary crown rests near the gum line, and the placement process can cause minor trauma to the delicate gingival tissue. This can lead to localized gum line irritation, swelling, or tenderness when chewing. The temporary cement or a poorly contoured crown edge can also contribute to this inflammation.
In some cases, the preparation may cause temporary inflammation of the periodontal ligament, the fibrous tissue that anchors the tooth to the bone. When you bite down, the pressure on this inflamed ligament can result in a throbbing or generalized pressure pain. This discomfort indicates the tooth is still recovering from the dental procedure.
Immediate Steps and When to Contact Your Dentist
Managing Discomfort and Protecting the Crown
To manage initial discomfort, favor a soft diet and chew on the side of your mouth opposite the temporary crown. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage mild soreness or inflammation immediately following the procedure. When flossing, slide the floss gently between your teeth, but pull it out sideways from the gum line rather than snapping it back up, which can dislodge the temporary crown.
If you feel the crown is high or your bite is uneven, contact your dentist promptly for an occlusion adjustment. Leaving a high spot uncorrected can cause excessive force on the tooth, potentially leading to further inflammation or damage to the prepared tooth or the opposing teeth. This adjustment is usually a quick process involving simple shaping of the crown.
When to Seek Urgent Professional Attention
You should seek professional attention immediately if the temporary crown falls off completely, as the underlying tooth is vulnerable to damage and sensitivity.
- Persistent, sharp, or throbbing pain that keeps you awake or is not relieved by over-the-counter medication signals a more serious issue.
- You notice significant swelling, pus, or a feeling that your bite has suddenly become much worse.