It’s quite a typical occurrence for one to feel tooth sensitivity after receiving a crown on a tooth, but generally, this sensitivity fades away within a few days to a couple of weeks. Knowing the causes of such sensitivity can provide some ease of mind. A dental crown is like a cap placed on a tooth that has been damaged to restore shape, size, strength, or appearance. But, the preparation of the tooth and crown placement can sometimes greatly cause temporary discomfort. On the other hand, if your tooth sensitivity is getting worse or is quite painful, you should visit your dentist, even if you have to search for a dental clinic in Plantation.
Among the common causes of tooth sensitivity after a crown is the preparation of the tooth. Tooth preparation requires that the existing tooth structure be reshaped so that the crown fits properly, where the dentist removes the superficial layer of enamel. Sometimes this process exposes the dentin within, which contains microscopic tubules leading directly to the nerve of the tooth. When exposed, these tubules react to stimuli such as hot, cold, sweet substances by irritating the nerve, thereby causing sensitivity symptoms. Such sensitivity is commonly transient and generally goes away when the gums heal and adjust to the new crown and the tooth settles.
Another possibility is gum irritation. During the procedure, the gums surrounding the treated tooth may become slightly inflamed or tender. This is a perfectly normal inflammatory response because of the manipulation of the tissues, and it usually will dissipate within a few days. The sensitivity you may feel may, in fact, be originating from your gums and not the tooth. Maintaining good oral hygiene, including gentle brushing and flossing around the crowned tooth, will help the area heal.
Mis-alignment of the bite pressure may sometimes contribute to the sensitivity of a tooth after a crown. Should the crown happen to be even slightly higher than your other teeth, then it will be subjected to excessive pressure every time you bite. This uneven pressure triggers sensitivity and discomfort. Usually, your dentist will check your bite after placing the crown and will be glad to make any necessary adjustments to ensure proper alignment. If, however, sensitivity emanating from the bite persists, you may need to seek your dentist again for minor adjustments.
Sometimes, a slight sensitivity can arise from the dental cement used in attaching the crown to the tooth. Most dental cement available nowadays is relatively biocompatible, but a slight reaction in some patients may sometimes occur whilst the cement is fully setting. This sensitivity is very short-lived.
Less frequently, any existing problems such as cracks in the tooth or incomplete treatment of a previously treated condition may be topical causes of post-crown sensitivity. If a tooth had a deep filling or history of sensitivity before the crown, these might continue or be temporarily worsened after the procedure. Less commonly, nerve damage during the preparation process may lead to prolonged sensitivity, but this is not a typical case.
Temperature sensitivity to some extent can also be caused by the crown materials. For instance, a metal crown conducts hot and cold temperatures much better than an all-porcelain or ceramic crown, causing irritability in some people.
After experiencing tooth sensitivity following the dental crown, one must do the following:
Keep good oral hygiene: Regularly brush and floss around the crowned tooth with some care.
Watch out for temperature extremes: Stay away from hot and cold foods and drinks for a while.
Use desensitizing toothpaste: They will block the pain signal from reaching the nerve.
Consult your dentist: If the pain becomes unbearable or has lasted for longer than just two weeks and is accompanied by other symptoms like swelling or sharp pain, you might want to seek follow-up treatment to get to the bottom of the problem.
While a little tooth sensitivity after placement of a dental crown is not unusual, ongoing sensations or increasing in severity should not be neglected. Your dentist will be able to identify what is causing your sensitivity and will provide some treatment options to make sure your crowned tooth feels comfortable and functional again.
