Getting a dental crown is a common procedure to restore a damaged tooth, strengthen a weakened structure, or improve the appearance of a crowned tooth. While crowns are designed to be durable and protective, some patients experience tooth crown pain after the procedure or even years later.
If you’re struggling with dental crown pain, it’s important to understand why it happens, what steps you can take for temporary relief, and when to see a dentist for further treatment. In this detailed guide, we’ll cover the possible causes of dental crown tooth pain, how to relieve tooth crown pain and the best ways to maintain good oral health after getting a new crown.
Why Does Your Dental Crown Hurt?
There are several reasons why you may experience dental crown toothaches. The pain can be a temporary sensitivity issue, a sign of an underlying dental problem, or an indication that the crown placement needs adjustment. Understanding the root cause of crown pain will help determine the best course of action.
1. Tooth Sensitivity After Getting a Crown
One of the most common complaints after a crown procedure is tooth sensitivity to hot and cold foods. This occurs because the underlying tooth and surrounding nerves may still be adjusting to the new crown.
What Causes Sensitivity?
- The tooth underneath may have been irritated during the preparation process.
- If the crown is made of metal or porcelain-fused-to-metal, it can conduct temperature more efficiently, leading to sensitive teeth.
- Minor exposure of the tooth’s root due to gum recession can heighten sensitivity.
How to Manage Sensitivity?
- Use toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth.
- Avoid extreme temperatures in food and drinks.
- Use soft bristles when brushing to avoid irritating the gums.
2. Bite Feels Off? Your Crown May Be Too High
If your bite feels uneven after crown placement, it could be due to an improperly fitted permanent crown. A high crown can create an uneven bite, leading to jaw pain, discomfort, and even wear on surrounding teeth.
Signs Your Crown Is Too High:
- Difficulty chewing on the affected tooth.
- Pain when biting down.
- Increased tension in jaw muscles leads to headaches.
What Can You Do?
- Arrange a dental appointment to have your crown properly adjusted.
- Avoid chewing on the affected side until the problem is corrected.
3. Tooth Decay Underneath the Crown
A crowned tooth is not immune to tooth decay. If bacteria infiltrate beneath the tooth crown, they can cause dental crown pain, leading to decay and infection.
Signs of Decay Beneath a Crown:
- Persistent sharp pain or discomfort.
- Bad taste or odour near the crowned tooth.
- Gum swelling sensitivity around the affected tooth.
Treatment Options:
- If decay is detected early, your dentist may be able to replace the crown and remove the decay.
- In more serious instances, a root canal procedure might be required to preserve the natural tooth.
4. Gum Recession Can Lead to Pain and Sensitivity
If your gums are receding, they may expose the tooth’s root, leading to increased tooth sensitivity. Gum recession may develop as a result of inadequate dental care, teeth grinding, or vigorous brushing with firm bristles.
How to Protect Your Gums?
- Brush with soft bristles, and avoid scrubbing too hard.
- Floss gently to avoid irritating the gum line.
- Consider gum treatment options if the recession is severe.
5. A Cracked Crown or Underlying Tooth
Over time, a dental crown or the tooth underneath can develop cracks due to pressure, injury, or biting hard foods. A cracked tooth can expose the tooth’s root, leading to crown pain and discomfort.
Symptoms of a Cracked Crown or Tooth:
- Intermittent sharp pain when biting.
- Sensitivity to hot and cold foods.
- Visible fractures on the crown.
Treatment Options:
- Minor cracks may be repaired with bonding.
- A severely cracked crown will require crown replacement.
- If the underlying tooth is cracked, a root canal procedure may be necessary.
6. Teeth Grinding Can Cause Pain and Wear Down Your Crown
People who grind their teeth at night (bruxism) often experience jaw pain and crown pain due to excessive pressure on the crowned tooth. Over time, this can lead to further damage, cracked teeth, and even loosening of the dental crown.
How to Prevent Grinding Damage?
- Wear a customised nightguard to protect your teeth and crown.
- Reduce stress, as anxiety can worsen teeth grinding.
- Consult your dentist for treatment options if grinding persists.
How to Relieve Tooth Crown Pain at Home
If you are experiencing mild pain, there are several ways to provide temporary relief before visiting your dentist.
1. Use an Ice Pack to Reduce Swelling
Placing an ice pack on the jaw may help alleviate inflammation and temporarily numb crown pain.
2. Herbal Remedies for Natural Relief
Some herbal remedies, such as clove oil, contain natural numbing properties that can help with dental crown toothaches.
3. Adjust Your Diet to Avoid Further Irritation
- Stick to soft foods until the pain subsides.
- Avoid hot and cold foods if tooth sensitivity is an issue.
- Steer clear of acidic foods that may worsen gum swelling sensitivity.
4. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Proper dental care can prevent infection and protect your natural tooth under the crown. Brush twice daily, floss regularly, and rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash.
When Should You See a Dentist?
While temporary relief methods can help manage dental crown pain, some symptoms indicate a need for urgent care.
Signs You Need Immediate Dental Attention:
Signs You Need Immediate Dental Attention:- Persistent tooth pain that lasts for more than a few days.
- Swelling, redness, or pus near the affected tooth.
- Severe sharp pain when biting or chewing.
- A loose or damaged dental crown.
- Signs of infection, such as fever or a bad taste in the mouth.
Treatment Options Your Dentist May Recommend:
- Crown replacement if the existing crown is damaged.
- Root canal treatment if the tooth underneath is infected.
- Bite adjustment if the crown placement is uneven.
- Gum treatment if gum recession is the cause of crown pain.
Final Thoughts on Managing Tooth Crown Pain
Experiencing dental crown pain can be distressing, but the good news is that it’s often treatable. Whether it’s mild pain due to sensitive teeth or a more serious issue like an infected underlying tooth, identifying the cause early can prevent long-term complications.
If your new crown is causing discomfort, don’t ignore it. Schedule an appointment at Advanced Dental Care at (02) 6188 7103 to ensure that your oral health remains in excellent condition.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
- Colgate. (n.d.). Do I need a night guard? Colgate Oral Care. https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/bruxism/do-i-need-a-night-guard
- Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Root canal treatment: What to expect. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21759-root-canal
- Verywell Health. (n.d.). The use of clove oil in dentistry. Verywell Health. https://www.verywellhealth.com/the-use-of-clove-oil-in-dentistry-1059310
