Pain From A Dental Crown? Find Out What Could Be Causing It

If you’re experiencing pain from a dental crown, you’re not alone. While crowns are constructed to protect damaged teeth and restore comfort and function, many things can lead to tooth sensitivity, tenderness, swollen gums, and sometimes pain.

In this blog, we’ll explain the most common issues associated with a dental crown to help you learn when it’s time to call your general dentist.

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a tooth covering that’s placed over a cracked, broken, or decayed tooth. It’s used to straighten the existing tooth to preserve both its function and appearance. A crown eliminates the need for tooth extraction, as it prolongs the life of the natural tooth. These dental crowns are cemented to hold the cap in place to resolve the visible part of the tooth that sits above the gumline. Crowns may be made of ceramic, metal, or porcelain.

Is It Normal to Feel Pain After Getting a Dental Crown?

Yes, while it’s normal to feel some tooth pain or sensitivity for a short time after getting a dental crown, as the tooth and surrounding gum tissue adjusts to the new dental restoration. This is caused by nerve irritation or inflammation from the procedure and gradually subsides. However, if you’re experiencing severe, persistent, or worsening pain, this often indicates another problem, like tooth decay underneath the crown, infection, or an incorrect bite. Contact your dentist if the discomfort becomes severe or lasts longer than two weeks.

Common Causes of Pain After a Dental Crown

Pain from a dental crown can be caused by many things, including:

• High bite alignment: A crown that is too low or high, or that doesn’t fit properly, can cause pressure on the gums or teeth, leading to bite issues.
• Inflamed nerve tissue: Placing a crown sometimes irritates the tooth’s nerves.
• Loose crown: A damaged or loose crown exposes the underlying tooth.
• Tooth decay: Cavities may form under the crown if the seal isn’t good and bacteria can settle in over time, which can lead to pain.
• Infection: Bacteria may enter around the crown to cause a tooth infection in the tooth or the surrounding gums.
• Teeth grinding: Bruxism can put excess pressure on a dental crown.

Common Post-Crown Discomfort Explained

To relieve pain from a dental crown, take an over-the-counter pain reliever, rinse your mouth with warm salt water, and apply cold compresses to your jaw. Avoid super hot or cold, hard, and sticky foods. If your pain is severe, lasts more than just a few days, or is getting worse, contact your dentist.

Treatment Options for Soothing Crown Pain

When you’re experiencing discomfort from a dental crown, your dentist may recommend different dental solutions depending on its cause.

Here are some common dental treatment options:

• Crown adjustment: A dentist can reshape or adjust a dental crown so it fits correctly and doesn’t interfere with your bite.
• Check for underlying issues: A dental exam will look for tooth decay beneath the crown, a loose or poorly fitted crown, or any signs of nerve irritation.
• Root canal therapy: If nerve inflammation or an infection is causing the pain, a root canal may be needed to save the natural tooth.
• Custom night guard: For patients who grind their teeth, a custom night guard can help protect a crown from excessive pressure on your restoration.

How to Prevent Future Dental Crown Pain

To prevent future dental crown pain, focus on establishing a good at-home oral hygiene routine, protecting the crown from excessive force, and scheduling regular dental exams for early monitoring and adjustments. Proper care helps extend the life of your crown and reduces the risk of discomfort.

Good daily hygiene habits are important for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Brush your teeth at least twice daily and floss to remove any excess plaque and food particles along your dental crown and gumline. Using an antibacterial mouthwash helps keep your mouth clean by reducing bacteria. Stay hydrated all day long, which supports oral health by washing away any debris.

When to Call Your Dentist

Some symptoms warrant a dental visit, including:

• Severe pain: If the pain is severe and not manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers for more than a few days.
• Persistent pain: If the pain does not start to improve or seems to worsen.
• Pain lasting over two weeks: If discomfort or tooth sensitivity continues beyond two weeks.
• Worsening symptoms: If the pain is accompanied by increased swelling, tenderness, or an abscess.

Learn More About How To Protect Dental Crowns & Your Oral Health

At Eriks Dental, we want to help you keep your dental crowns and your entire smile healthy for years. Understanding how to properly care for a crown makes a big difference in its longevity and your comfort. From maintaining a strong daily oral hygiene routine to protecting your crown from pressure and attending routine dental exams, proactive care is the key to preventing damage and avoiding future crown pain.

Learn more about the simple steps you can take to safeguard your dental crowns and support lasting oral health. You can request an appointment online or call our dental office at 954-463-5051.