Dental crowns are a common solution for restoring damaged teeth, offering both function and aesthetics. However, it’s not uncommon to experience discomfort or pain after getting a crown. If you’re wondering, “Why does my crown hurt?”—you’re not alone.
Dr. Eugene Bernstein of Gentle Dental of NJ explains, “Crowns are typically made from porcelain or a combination of metal and porcelain. If you’re feeling pain, it could mean the tooth requires additional treatment, such as a root canal. This can happen after crown preparation if the tooth becomes overly sensitive.”
Understanding the potential causes of crown-related pain can help you address the issue effectively and maintain optimal oral health.
1. Normal Post-Procedure Sensitivity
It is normal to experience some sensitivity in the first few days after getting a dental crown in Newark, NJ. This sensitivity is often due to the manipulation of the tooth during the crown placement process.
You may notice tenderness when biting down or sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks. Typically, this discomfort is temporary and should subside within a week or two as the tooth adjusts.
What to do:
- Avoid extremely hot or cold foods and drinks for a few days.
- Use a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth to help alleviate discomfort.
- If the pain persists beyond two weeks, consult your dentist to rule out other issues.
2. Improper Fit or Alignment
A crown that doesn’t fit properly can cause significant discomfort. If the crown is too high, it can create an uneven bite, leading to pain when chewing or even jaw discomfort.
If the crown is too low, it may not provide proper coverage, increasing sensitivity or the risk of decay and structural damage.
What to do:
- If you notice pain when biting down, contact your dentist. They can adjust the crown’s fit to ensure it aligns properly with your bite.
- Avoid chewing on the side of the mouth with the new crown until it’s adjusted.
3. Tooth Decay Under the Crown
While crowns are designed to protect damaged teeth, the natural tooth underneath is still susceptible to decay.
Bacteria can seep under the crown, causing decay, pain, sensitivity, or even infection if untreated.
What to do:
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly, paying special attention to the crowned tooth.
- If you experience persistent pain or notice a bad taste in your mouth, schedule a dental check-up immediately.
- Your dentist may need to remove the crown to treat the decay and replace it with a new one.
4. Nerve Damage or Irritation
In some cases, the process of preparing a tooth for a crown can irritate or damage the nerve inside the tooth. This is more common if the tooth was already significantly decayed or damaged before the crown was placed.
Nerve-related pain often feels sharp and throbbing and can develop weeks or even months after crown placement.
What to do:
- If you suspect nerve damage, contact your dentist as soon as possible. They may recommend a root canal to remove the damaged nerve and alleviate the pain.
- In some cases, the nerve may settle on its own, but professional evaluation is crucial to prevent further complications.
5. Gum Inflammation or Infection
The placement of a crown can sometimes irritate the surrounding gum tissue, leading to inflammation or even infection.
This is especially true if the crown margin (where the crown meets the gum line) is not smooth or if there’s an excess of cement left around the crown.
What to do:
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to reduce inflammation.
- If the pain persists or worsens, visit your dentist. They may need to smooth the crown margin or remove excess cement to resolve the issue.
6. Cracked or Damaged Crown
Although dental crowns are durable, they are not indestructible. A crown can crack or become damaged due to trauma, grinding your teeth (bruxism), or biting down on hard objects.
A damaged crown can expose the underlying tooth, leading to pain and sensitivity.
What to do:
- If you suspect your crown is cracked or damaged, avoid chewing on that side of your mouth and contact your dentist immediately.
- Your dentist will assess the crown and may replace it to restore comfort and function.
Struggling with Crown Discomfort? Gentle Dental of NJ Is Here to Help!
While some discomfort after getting a crown is normal, persistent or severe pain is not. At Gentle Dental of NJ, our experienced team is dedicated to providing expert, evidence-based care to address your concerns and restore your comfort.
With years of specialized training and a focus on patient well-being, we create treatment plans customized to your needs.
If you are searching for dental crowns near me, contact us today to schedule a consultation and get personalized care for long-lasting comfort and confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a loose crown cause pain?
Yes, a loose crown can cause pain or discomfort, especially when chewing or biting down. If your crown feels loose, avoid chewing on that side of your mouth and contact your dentist immediately.
When should I be concerned about ongoing crown pain?
Mild discomfort or sensitivity is normal for the first week or two after crown placement. However, if the pain persists beyond two weeks or worsens over time, it could indicate an issue such as improper fit, nerve irritation, or decay.
Can a crown cause pain in other teeth or my jaw?
Yes, a poorly fitted crown can affect your bite, leading to pain in other teeth or even your jaw due to misalignment. If you experience pain surrounding a crown, it could be a sign that the crown needs adjustment.
