Dental crowns are a widely used option for the treatment of lost or weakened teeth. They are made with a snug fit that wraps over the tooth with a high degree of protection and strength. Yet it is not unusual for patients to have occasional episodes of pain or sensitivity in a crowned tooth.
If you’ve been wondering why your crowned tooth hurts sometimes, you’re not alone. At Enhance Dental Center, we’ve helped countless patients address this issue, and we’re here to share some key insights into its possible causes and solutions.
Understanding Crowned Tooth Pain
Pain in a crowned tooth can range from mild sensitivity to sharp, persistent discomfort. Although crowns are intended to give lasting protection, numerous variables can lead to pain. There may be minor, transient problems or problems which require more serious specialist help. Knowing what’s normal and what requires attention can help you manage your dental health more effectively.
Common Causes of Pain in a Crowned Tooth
Pain is one of the most common suspects related to the pathology of the underlying tooth. Although the crown serves as a protective shield, the tooth just beneath it may still suffer from issues. Tooth damage (e.g., decay, gum diseases, or even dentition cracks) can cause pain. Bacteria would have the ability to invade the site at the junction between the crown and the tooth, resulting in caries or infection, manifesting as severe pain.
A further possible problem is the adaptation of the crown itself. A poorly seated crown may bite down against an adjacent tooth and/or protrude from the gum tissue. With time, this might cause either discomfort or inflammation of the surrounding region. Similarly, if your bite is misaligned after receiving the crown, the uneven pressure on the tooth can cause sensitivity or pain when chewing.
Occasionally, pain in a crowned tooth could be related to an underlying infection. When the pulp is not completely excised or treated in a root canal preparation before fitting the crown, an abscess can occur due to bacteria. This disease often leads to intense pain, swelling, and temperature sensitivity.
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is another potential cause. Grinding exerts excessive force on the crowned tooth, which can weaken the bond between the crown and the tooth or even cause small fractures. With time, this may lead to intermittent pain or distress.
When Is Pain Normal and When Should You Worry?
Sensitivity immediately after receiving a dental crown is not unusual. This sensitivity usually improves within days or weeks while your mouth adapts. But, if it becomes recurrent, aggravated, or occurs isolatedly long after the crown has been inserted, it is important to see your dentist.
Severe or cramping pain with swelling, redness, or sour taste from the mouth can represent an infection or abscess. Also, chronic sensitivity to either hot, cold, or sweet food items, can raise the suspicion of a problem below the crown. These signs do need urgent dental care to avoid future complications.
How Is Crowned Tooth Pain Treated?
The management of crowned tooth pain is based on the reason underlying it. If the problem is seen in the fit of the crown, your dentist has to modify or replace it to have a better fit. For pulpal or periapical infection or lesion in the crown area, extraction of the crown and treatment of the underlying tooth may be required. In this, there may be a need to perform a filling, root canal treatment, or even to replace the crown itself with a new one.
If excessive force causes tooth grinding, your periodontist may suggest a custom mouthguard to guard both your teeth and crowns from that excessive force. Treatment of systemic causes of the problem such as gum disease, deep cleaning, or periodontal treatment can also reduce the pain of the crowned tooth.
Preventing Crowned Tooth Pain
Good oral hygiene plays an important role in the prevention of pain in crowned teeth. Brushing twice daily, flossing regularly, and using an antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce the risk of decay and infection. Regular dental examination is also crucial for assessing the condition of your crowns and for identifying possible problems at their earliest stage.
Staying away from habits such as chewing ice, biting hard objects, and bruxism protecting your crown and avoiding unnecessary pressure. If you notice any changes in the way your crown feels or fits, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist for an evaluation.
Conclusion
Pain in the crown of the tooth may be due to a wide range of reasons, from mild sensitivity to a more serious dental pathology. Comprehending these possible sources and Getting early dental care can help protect your oral health and prevent complications.
At Enhance Dental Center, we’re dedicated to helping our patients find lasting relief from dental discomfort. If your crowned tooth is causing you pain, schedule an appointment with us today for a thorough evaluation and expert care.