Common Causes of Tooth Pain After Getting a Crown

Dental crowns are an effective way of managing damaged teeth. They provide protection that can prevent further decay while also offering excellent aesthetic results.

The process of getting dental crowns is relatively simple and fast, but some people may experience a bit of pain. Learn why dental crowns are so vital, when tooth pain may occur, and when you should speak to your dentist about it if it ends up causing discomfort or if you feel your crown is beginning to hurt.

When Dental Crowns Are Needed

Dental crowns are necessary when a tooth suffers some kind of damage. Chipping, cracking, or severe cavities can benefit from these restorations because they protect the underlying tooth structure and prevent bacteria from getting in.

For people who have undergone a root canal, dental crowns are also helpful. Those procedures can leave the tooth fragile and more prone to cracking. By having a crown over it, the tooth has the necessary protection.

They are needed as part of dental implants, too. They fit over the steel post and abutment, giving the appearance of a natural tooth.

Dental crowns are also a good choice for discolored teeth. They offer the aesthetic results you may be looking for because they can be made of many materials and can match your natural teeth.

The Dental Crown Process

Getting dental crowns can take one or two visits, depending on the type of crown you’re getting. Your dentist will remove some of your tooth’s enamel. This makes room for the restoration while also ensuring the crown stays in place.

Your dentist will then make dental impressions to create the mold for the crown. The mold can be done with a special dental putty or via a handheld scanner that takes images and creates a 3D rendering of the tooth and nearby structures.

These impressions will then go to a dental lab where a technician will create the crown. If you’re getting a regular crown, you may need to get a temporary crown first while your permanent one is being crafted. Once that process is complete, you’ll need to return to your dentist to have it fitted.

In other instances, you may be able to get a same-day crown. This saves you the need for a temporary crown.

Common Causes of Discomfort or Tooth Pain After Crown Placement

Tooth pain after crown placement can occur for several reasons:

Healing From the Dental Procedure

Right after getting the crown, it’s normal to feel some discomfort. You have gone through a dental procedure, and you’re bound to have some swelling, which causes pain. As your mouth heals and gets used to the crown, the discomfort should fade.

Reduced Enamel

Because your dentist will have removed some of the enamel from your tooth, the whole structure will be more sensitive. Drinking and eating very cold or hot drinks or food will cause mild aching. There could also be nerve irritation inside the tooth.

Gum Inflammation

Placing a dental crown can also cause gum irritation, leading to swelling and pain. It should fade within a few days.

Pressure While Chewing

Placing pressure on the dental crown while chewing can lead to some discomfort. The crown can press down on the gum line, which is already more sensitive because of the procedure you have undergone.

A Loose Crown

If your dental crown feels loose, shifts when you bite, or does not sit securely, it can cause pain, discomfort, or sensitivity. A loose crown may expose the underlying tooth to air, temperature changes, and bacteria, increasing the risk of irritation or decay. You may also notice uneven pressure when chewing. This is not something that will resolve on its own, and you should contact your dentist as soon as possible to have the crown adjusted or re-cemented. A crown that doesn’t sit correctly will put your tooth in danger of further damage.

When You May Need Help From Your Dentist

The process of getting dental crowns does cause some discomfort, but there are signs that can warn you that it may be time to consult your dentist. Keep an eye on the type of pain you feel. If it is sharp or prolonged, that could point to an underlying nerve issue that needs to be addressed.

If the crown hurts significantly when you bite down, this could be a sign that it is misaligned with your natural bite or sits too high. This puts additional pressure on your tooth.

You should also reach out to your dentist if you notice that the area around your tooth is significantly swollen. Some inflammation is normal, but if it doesn’t improve or the gum line feels very hot or hard, it could indicate an infection that requires professional treatment.

If Your Dental Crown Starts to Hurt, Don’t Wait to Get It Checked

If you are in need of a dental crown or your crown is causing pain, Dr. Brett Langston can help. With decades of experience, he provides the dental services you need and can answer all of your questions when it comes to crown sensitivity and crowned tooth care. Contact us to schedule an appointment.