A dental crown is a protective cap placed over a damaged tooth, restoring its shape, size, strength, and appearance. While crowns improve tooth function, discomfort, especially when chewing, is common after placement. This sensation is often temporary as the mouth adjusts. Understanding the potential reasons behind this discomfort can help individuals navigate their recovery.
Common Reasons for Discomfort
Pain or sensitivity in a newly crowned tooth when chewing can stem from several factors.
One frequent cause is a “high spot” on the crown, meaning its surface is slightly too tall, causing it to hit opposing teeth prematurely or with excessive force. This misalignment generates significant pressure during chewing, leading to discomfort. This issue is often identified when biting down feels uneven or when there is sharp pain upon biting or releasing.
Another reason for discomfort is inflammation of the dental pulp, known as pulpitis. The tooth’s inner nerve and blood vessels can become irritated during the crown preparation process. This irritation can lead to sensitivity or pain, especially when pressure is applied during chewing. If the inflammation persists or worsens, it may indicate a more significant issue within the tooth’s nerve.
The gum tissue around the new crown can also be a source of pain. Crown placement might cause temporary irritation or inflammation of the surrounding gums. The crown’s margin, where it meets the gum line, could also irritate the tissue if not perfectly fitted or if bacteria accumulate. This can result in localized soreness, redness, or sensitivity.
The tooth may exhibit residual sensitivity after preparation and cementation. Similar to sensitivity after a large filling, the tooth’s underlying dentin may be exposed or the nerve may be recovering. This sensitivity typically diminishes over a few days or weeks as the tooth acclimates to the crown.
A pre-existing crack in the tooth underneath the crown might become more apparent once the crown is placed and subjected to chewing forces. While the crown protects the tooth, it does not always prevent a crack from extending deeper or causing pain, especially if the crack reaches the pulp. This can lead to sharp or shooting pain when biting down.
When to Consult Your Dentist
Knowing when to consult your dentist is important for proper healing and preventing complications.
If the pain is persistent and does not subside after a few days or within one to two weeks, it is advisable to contact your dentist. Initial soreness is common, but prolonged or intensifying pain suggests a need for evaluation.
Severe or worsening pain is a clear signal to seek prompt dental care. Sharp, shooting pain when biting down or releasing the bite can indicate an issue with the crown’s fit or the underlying tooth structure. This type of pain might suggest a high spot on the crown or a deeper problem within the tooth.
Other signs that necessitate a dental visit include pain accompanied by swelling, redness, or a bad taste around the crowned tooth, which could point to an infection. Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, where discomfort persists long after the stimulus is removed, also warrants a check-up. Any difficulty eating or speaking due to the pain indicates it interferes with daily activities and requires professional assessment.
Managing Discomfort and Recovery
Managing discomfort after a new dental crown involves at-home care and potential dental interventions.
To alleviate initial soreness, individuals can consider:
- Opting for a soft food diet, particularly during the first 24 hours to a few days following placement.
- Chewing on the opposite side of the mouth to help reduce pressure on the new crown.
- Using over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, to effectively manage mild discomfort and inflammation.
- Rinsing with warm saltwater several times a day to soothe irritated gums and promote healing.
Initial sensitivity and discomfort are normal, with most people resuming regular eating and oral care within a few days to two weeks. Full adjustment to the new crown typically occurs within one month as the gum tissue and bite adapt. If pain persists beyond this period, professional intervention may be required.
If a high spot is causing discomfort, the dentist can easily adjust the crown’s bite. This involves using a special paper to identify points of excessive contact and then carefully reshaping the crown’s surface. This process is usually quick and painless, often resolving the issue in a single visit.
If pulpitis does not resolve, a root canal might be necessary to remove inflamed or infected tissue from inside the tooth. This procedure can often be performed through the existing crown, preserving it. If the tooth structure is too compromised or the crown is damaged, crown replacement might be considered.
Maintaining good oral hygiene around the new crown is important for long-term success and to prevent further issues. Regular brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and daily flossing help prevent plaque buildup and gum inflammation. Careful cleaning around the crown’s margin helps avoid decay at the gum line and ensures the health of surrounding tissues.