A temporary dental crown is a protective cap placed over a prepared tooth while a permanent crown is being custom-made in a dental laboratory. Its primary purpose is to safeguard the underlying tooth structure, maintain the correct spacing between teeth, and provide a natural appearance during the waiting period. While some mild discomfort or sensitivity after placement is common, persistent or severe pain indicates a need for attention.
Understanding the Source of Discomfort
Discomfort after temporary crown placement can arise from factors related to the procedure or the crown’s fit. The prepared tooth beneath the crown can be sensitive. Temporary crowns are not as precisely fitted or strong as permanent restorations.
An uneven bite is a common reason for pain. If the temporary crown is slightly taller than surrounding teeth, it can bear excessive force when you bite down, causing pressure and discomfort in the tooth. This imbalance can lead to soreness.
Gum irritation is another frequent cause of pain, often from the temporary crown’s edges or dental cement. Gums around the treated tooth may become inflamed or tender as they adjust. This irritation usually resolves as the gums heal.
Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure is common because preparation reduces the tooth’s outer enamel, exposing inner layers. This allows stimuli to reach the tooth’s nerve, causing sharp, temporary pain. Sensitivity typically diminishes as the tooth heals.
A temporary crown that becomes loose or breaks can expose the prepared tooth, leading to increased sensitivity and discomfort. Temporary crowns use weaker adhesive, making them more susceptible to dislodgement or damage. Movement of a loose crown can irritate the underlying tooth or gums.
Underlying tooth issues, such as nerve inflammation from preparation, residual decay, or a pre-existing crack, can also cause pain. If not fully resolved before placement, these issues may become symptomatic. An infection in the tooth’s root or surrounding bone can also manifest as pain, sometimes accompanied by swelling.
Immediate Steps for Relief
Managing mild discomfort from a temporary crown at home involves several practical steps. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can alleviate pain and reduce inflammation, providing temporary relief while the tooth adjusts.
Adjusting your diet helps prevent irritation or damage to the temporary crown. Opt for soft foods, avoiding hard, crunchy, or sticky items that could dislodge the crown. Chewing on the opposite side of your mouth also reduces pressure.
Gentle oral hygiene is important to keep the area clean without disturbing the crown. Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush, being careful around the temporary crown. When flossing, slide the floss gently between your teeth and pull it out from the side rather than snapping it upwards, which could dislodge the crown.
If sensitivity to temperature is present, avoid hot or cold foods and drinks. Extreme temperatures can exacerbate sensitivity in the exposed tooth structure. Using a straw for beverages or allowing hot foods to cool can help minimize direct contact.
When to Contact Your Dentist
While some discomfort is normal, certain symptoms warrant immediate professional dental attention. If you experience severe or worsening pain that does not subside with home remedies or continues for more than a few days, it suggests an underlying issue requiring evaluation by a dentist.
Signs of infection, such as swelling in the gums or face, fever, or pus around the temporary crown, require prompt dental care. Untreated infections can spread and lead to more serious health issues. A bad taste or odor in your mouth can also signal an underlying infection.
If your temporary crown falls off or breaks, contact your dentist as soon as possible. The temporary crown protects the prepared tooth from damage, sensitivity, and movement of adjacent teeth. Without it, the tooth is vulnerable, and nearby teeth might shift, complicating permanent crown placement.
Persistent sensitivity that does not resolve within a few weeks, especially to temperature changes or pressure, should be reported to your dentist. While initial sensitivity is expected, prolonged discomfort may indicate an issue with the crown’s fit, exposed tooth structure, or other underlying concerns.
Difficulty chewing or biting, particularly if the temporary crown feels too high, necessitates a dental visit. An improper bite can lead to sustained pressure on the tooth, causing pain and potentially affecting the jaw joint. Your dentist can adjust the crown to ensure proper bite alignment.