Dental crowns are a common solution for restoring damaged or decayed teeth. However, experiencing pain around a dental crown can be concerning for many patients. Whether it’s mild discomfort or sharp, persistent pain, understanding the causes and appropriate responses can help ease your worry and ensure the longevity of your dental restoration. In this blog, we will explore common reasons for pain around dental crowns, how to address it, and when to seek professional care.
Understanding Dental Crowns and Their Purpose
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. Crowns are commonly used after procedures like root canal therapy or to protect a weakened tooth from further damage. They are made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, and metal, designed to blend seamlessly with the natural teeth and provide lasting durability.
While dental crowns are highly effective, they are not immune to causing discomfort or pain. It is crucial to recognize the causes of pain around crowns and how to respond to them for effective pain relief.
Causes of Pain Around Dental Crowns
1. Sensitivity After Crown Placement
One of the most common causes of pain after a dental crown is placed is tooth sensitivity. When the crown is first placed, it is common to experience some sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure. This occurs because the natural tooth underneath the crown may still be healing. Additionally, if a tooth was previously treated with a root canal, the nerve may still be sensitive, even if the infection is gone.
How to respond: This sensitivity typically subsides within a few days to a few weeks as the tooth adjusts to its new crown. In the meantime, avoiding extremely hot or cold foods can help reduce discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can also alleviate pain.
2. Crown Misalignment or High Points
After a crown is placed, it is essential that it fits properly within your bite. If the crown is too high or misaligned, it can cause discomfort when biting or chewing. Misalignment can put excessive pressure on the tooth beneath the crown, leading to pain or discomfort. If left unaddressed, this can result in further complications, such as gum irritation or damage to the crown itself.
How to respond: If you notice pain when biting or chewing, schedule an appointment with your dentist immediately. They can adjust the crown to ensure proper alignment, relieving pressure and pain.
3. Gum Irritation or Infection
Sometimes, pain around a dental crown is caused by issues with the gums rather than the crown itself. If food particles or plaque build-up around the edges of the crown, it can lead to gum irritation or even infection. In some cases, the crown may have gaps or be improperly sealed, allowing bacteria to infiltrate and cause an infection in the underlying tooth or surrounding gum tissue.
How to respond: Maintaining proper oral hygiene around the crown is crucial to avoid irritation or infection. Gently brushing the area and flossing around the crown can help remove food particles and prevent plaque buildup. If you suspect an infection, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics or recommend a cleaning to address the issue.
4. Damage or Fracture of the Crown
While dental crowns are durable, they can still become damaged or fractured due to trauma, chewing on hard foods, or grinding teeth (bruxism). If a crown becomes chipped or cracked, it can cause pain or discomfort when chewing or biting.
How to respond: If your crown becomes damaged or fractured, contact your dentist as soon as possible. In some cases, the crown may need to be replaced, especially if the damage is significant. If the damage is minimal, your dentist may be able to repair the crown.
5. Underlying Tooth Issues
In some cases, pain around a dental crown may be caused by an issue with the underlying tooth. If the tooth beneath the crown is decaying or has an infection, it can cause pain and discomfort. Even if the crown itself is in good condition, underlying dental issues can lead to persistent pain.
How to respond: If you suspect that there may be an issue with the tooth beneath your crown, consult your dentist for a thorough examination. Your dentist may need to perform an X-ray or other diagnostic tests to identify the problem and provide appropriate treatment.
6. Teeth Grinding and Jaw Clenching (Bruxism)
Many individuals unknowingly grind or clench their teeth, particularly during sleep. This condition, known as bruxism, can cause pain around dental crowns. The pressure from grinding can lead to tooth sensitivity, cracked crowns, or jaw pain, exacerbating the discomfort.
How to respond: If you suffer from bruxism, consider wearing a nightguard to protect your teeth and dental crowns while sleeping. Your dentist can custom-make a nightguard to fit comfortably and reduce the impact of grinding. In some cases, your dentist may recommend other treatments to address the underlying cause of bruxism.
How to Alleviate Pain Around Dental Crowns
Here are some additional strategies to help alleviate pain or discomfort around dental crowns:
Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek near the painful area can reduce inflammation and numb the pain. Apply the compress for 1015 minutes at a time.
Saltwater Rinse: Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help reduce inflammation and promote healing, especially if you suspect an infection or irritation around the crown.
Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can provide temporary relief from crown-related discomfort.
Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: Eating soft foods and avoiding hard, sticky, or chewy foods can prevent unnecessary pressure on the crown and reduce pain.
When to Seek Professional Help
While some discomfort around dental crowns can be managed at home, it’s important to seek professional dental care if:
The pain persists for more than a few days or increases in intensity.
You notice any visible damage to the crown, such as cracks or chips.
There is swelling or tenderness in the gums or around the crown.
You experience sharp pain when biting or chewing.
The crown feels loose or falls off.
Your dentist will be able to assess the situation, determine the cause of the pain, and recommend the most appropriate treatment.
Conclusion
Pain around dental crowns is a common issue that can be caused by a variety of factors, from temporary sensitivity to misalignment, infection, or damage. Understanding the causes of pain and how to respond can help alleviate discomfort and ensure the longevity of your crown. By maintaining good oral hygiene, addressing any issues promptly, and following your dentist’s recommendations, you can enjoy a healthy, pain-free smile for years to come. If you ever experience persistent or severe pain, dont hesitate to reach out to your dental care provider for guidance and treatment.