Dental crowns are common restorative treatments used to restore teeth that are damaged or decayed. While crowns are designed to be durable and long-lasting, some patients experience discomfort or pain after getting one. If you’re wondering, “Why does my crown hurt?” you’re not alone. Pain after a crown procedure can stem from a variety of reasons. Understanding the potential causes and how to address them can help ease your discomfort and protect your oral health.
In this article, we’ll explore common reasons why crowns may cause pain and what you can do to relieve it. If you’re experiencing persistent pain, it’s always a good idea to visit a family dentist in Arlington, VA, such as Bloom Dental of Arlington, for expert care and advice.
Common Reasons Why a Crown Might Hurt
Tooth Sensitivity After the Procedure
It’s normal to experience some sensitivity after getting a crown, especially if the tooth had extensive decay or damage before the procedure. The tooth underneath the crown may still be healing, and this can cause temporary discomfort or sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods.
Solution: Sensitivity usually resolves after a few days to a week. If the discomfort persists, it’s important to visit your dentist to check if the issue is more serious.
Crown Does Not Fit Properly
A crown that doesn’t fit properly can cause pain by exerting pressure on surrounding teeth or the underlying gum tissue. If the crown is too high, it can lead to discomfort when chewing or biting down, as the force is not evenly distributed.
Solution: If you suspect your crown doesn’t fit right, contact your dentist. They can adjust the crown to ensure proper fit and eliminate the pressure that is causing the pain.
Gum Irritation or Infection
After a crown is placed, the gums around the tooth can become irritated. If the crown edge is too rough or too high, it can rub against the gums, causing discomfort. In some cases, infection may develop under the crown, leading to pain and swelling.
Solution: Rinsing with salt water can help soothe mild irritation. If infection is suspected, you should seek dental care right away. Your dentist may need to remove the crown to address the infection and ensure proper healing.
Underlying Tooth Decay or Damage
If the tooth underneath the crown wasn’t adequately treated for decay or damage before the crown was placed, the infection or damage could continue to spread. This can lead to pain and discomfort even after the crown is put in place.
Solution: A thorough examination by your dentist will help determine if there is underlying tooth decay. In some cases, a root canal treatment may be necessary to resolve the issue before a new crown is placed.
Cracked or Damaged Crown
Over time, a crown can crack or become damaged due to wear and tear, trauma, or biting down on hard objects. A cracked crown can expose the underlying tooth, causing pain when chewing or biting.
Solution: If your crown is cracked or chipped, contact your dentist for a replacement or repair. It’s important to avoid chewing on hard foods to prevent further damage.
Nerve Damage or Inflammation
During the placement of a crown, the nerve inside the tooth can sometimes become inflamed, particularly if the procedure involved a significant amount of drilling or if the tooth was heavily decayed. This inflammation can cause prolonged pain and sensitivity.
Solution: If you suspect nerve involvement, your dentist may recommend a root canal treatment to remove the inflamed nerve tissue and prevent further pain.
When to Visit Your Dentist
If your crown is causing persistent pain, it’s important to schedule an appointment with your dentist. A family dentist in Arlington, VA, such as Bloom Dental of Arlington, can evaluate the issue and determine the exact cause of your discomfort. They will conduct a thorough examination, which may include X-rays, to diagnose the problem and recommend the appropriate treatment.
It’s especially important to seek dental care if you experience any of the following symptoms:
– Severe pain that lasts more than a few days
– Swelling or redness around the crown
– Difficulty chewing or biting down
– Fever or signs of infection
Preventing Pain from Crowns
While pain after a crown procedure is not uncommon, there are steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of experiencing discomfort:
– Follow Post-Op Care Instructions: After getting a crown, your dentist will provide care instructions. Following these carefully can help avoid complications like irritation or sensitivity.
– Avoid Hard Foods: Immediately after the crown is placed, avoid chewing on hard foods that could put pressure on the crown or cause it to crack.
– Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Keeping your mouth clean by brushing and flossing regularly can prevent gum irritation and tooth decay, which can lead to crown discomfort.
– Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Regular checkups will help ensure that your crown is still in good condition and that there are no underlying issues.
Conclusion
Experiencing discomfort after getting a crown is not uncommon, but it’s essential to identify the cause of the pain and seek appropriate treatment. Whether it’s due to tooth sensitivity, improper fit, or an underlying issue, a family dentist in Arlington, VA, such as Bloom Dental of Arlington, can help you address the problem and relieve the discomfort. If you’re dealing with persistent pain, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment to ensure that your crown is working as it should.
By maintaining regular dental checkups and following your dentist’s care instructions, you can enjoy the long-lasting benefits of your crown without the pain.
Did you find this helpful? Check out our other helpful articles on our website.
Read Also
- Your Guide to Finding a Trusted Dentist
Choosing the right dentist in Sandgate or your area is crucial for maintaining good oral health and achieving a confident smile. With countless dental practices to choose from, patients may find the task daunting. Data from the American Dental Association indicates that there are over 200,000 practicing dentists in the United States, highlighting the importance… Read more: Your Guide to Finding a Trusted Dentist - Achieving a Defined, Balanced Facial Contour in SingaporeA well-defined jawline and a gently tapered lower face — commonly referred to as a V-shaped face — is a look many people aspire to. In Singapore’s beauty and aesthetic scene, treatments that help refine facial contours have grown in popularity as more individuals seek subtle, natural enhancements that boost confidence and balance facial features.… Read more: Achieving a Defined, Balanced Facial Contour in Singapore
- The Wellness Blueprint: How Your DNA Holds the AnswerGenetic testing is revolutionizing preventive healthcare by offering insights into individual health risks. By analyzing DNA, these tests provide a personalized health blueprint that can guide lifestyle and medical decisions. This approach, often referred to as DNA wellness testing, helps to optimize health naturally and prevent potential diseases. In recent years, genetic testing has become… Read more: The Wellness Blueprint: How Your DNA Holds the Answer
- Exploring the Benefits of Infusion Therapy in OKC: The Ultimate GuideUnderstanding Infusion Therapy: A Deep Dive into Its Purpose and Process What exactly is Infusion Therapy? Infusion therapy is an advanced medical treatment that delivers medication and nutrients directly into the bloodstream through a vein, typically via an IV (intravenous) line. This method is particularly beneficial for patients who require a concentrated dose of medication,… Read more: Exploring the Benefits of Infusion Therapy in OKC: The Ultimate Guide
- Ketamine-Assisted Therapies: Impacts on Employee WellbeingWorkplace stress is common today. Many employees feel tired, anxious, or burned out. Regular therapy can help, but some people need more support. Ketamine-assisted therapy is showing good results for mental health. A ketamine-assisted therapist guides each session safely. This therapy can improve mood, focus, and energy. Learning more about it can help teams stay… Read more: Ketamine-Assisted Therapies: Impacts on Employee Wellbeing
- The Future of Men’s Health: Why Telehealth Is Here to StayTelehealth isn’t just a pandemic trend that faded into the background. For Australian men, it has become one of the most practical, time-saving, and stress-free ways to manage everyday health — and it’s shaping the future of how we access care. Platforms like DOCTO, an Australian online doctor and specialist telehealth service, are leading the… Read more: The Future of Men’s Health: Why Telehealth Is Here to Stay
- How to Build a Simple, Clean Skincare Routine ?You don’t need a complicated skincare routine. It doesn’t have to be something that requires twenty different products and confusing steps. Your routine works well with just a few high-quality clean ingredients. The beauty industry keeps pushing more products, but your skin actually needs less. You only need a simple approach to get better results… Read more: How to Build a Simple, Clean Skincare Routine ?
- How Preventive Dental Care Supports Overall HealthHave you ever wondered how a simple dental checkup could impact your entire body? Oral health is more than just a bright smile. Studies show that poor dental habits can contribute to serious health problems. Gum disease and tooth decay are linked to heart disease, diabetes, and infections. Yet, many people overlook preventive dental care.… Read more: How Preventive Dental Care Supports Overall Health
