A dental crown is meant to protect a weak or damaged tooth, so it can feel frustrating if it starts to hurt. Minor sensitivity can be expected as the tooth adjusts to a new crown. However, pain that lasts, gets worse, or starts months later may mean something needs attention.
Here are three of the most common causes of dental crown-related pain:
A dental crown covers the visible part of a tooth, but the natural tooth underneath still needs care. Without it, decay can form near the margin, the area where the crown meets the tooth. This can happen when plaque collects around the gumline or when the crown no longer has a tight seal. The crown itself cannot form a cavity, but the tooth beneath it can.
Common signs that decay is the underlying cause of the patient’s pain include:
Note that a problematic crown may look normal, even though decay is forming near it. The dentist can check the crown margins and look for early signs of trouble. The recommended treatment depends on the extent of decay. The dentist can repair a small area. However, a larger cavity may require the crown to be replaced.
A dental crown may hurt if the bite is uneven. Even a tiny, unnoticeable high spot can make the crowned tooth hit before the other teeth. When this happens, the tooth is under increased pressure whenever the patient chews, clenches, or closes the mouth. This pressure can make the tooth feel sore or bruised.
Some patients may notice that a crown is too tall or that their teeth do not come together normally. These symptoms should be checked because a high bite can be easily adjusted. During a short visit, a dentist may use marking paper to see where the teeth touch, then gently smooth the crown to improve the bite balance.
Sometimes, pain around a dental crown comes from the nerve inside the tooth. After all, the tooth may have originally needed the crown to address a large cavity, crack, broken filling, or other damage. In these cases, the nerve may already be irritated before the crown is placed. Preparing the tooth for crown placement can also cause temporary sensitivity.
However, if irritation continues, a dentist can test the tooth to see how the nerve responds. If the irritation persists, the dentist may recommend watching the tooth or adjusting the bite. If the nerve is infected or irreparably damaged, the patient may need root canal treatment.
A dental crown is meant to protect a tooth, not hurt it. When pain or discomfort occurs, a dentist can address the root cause to restore comfort. If your crown is hurting, contact Nina Basti DDS for help.
Request an appointment here: https://dentistinsanclemente.com or call Nina Basti DDS at (949) 201-4719 for an appointment in our San Clemente office.
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