Dental crowns help restore damaged teeth and protect them from breaking. But have you ever felt pain after getting a crown? Wondered why you have pain after a dental crown, and how you can reduce or treat it?
This article answers all your questions.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a restorative and cosmetic procedure performed by a dentist. It is essentially:
– A cap or artificial tooth with a color that closely matches your natural teeth.
– The crown is placed over your tooth to restore its shape, strength, and function and to protect it from further damage.
– Crowns are made from different materials such as porcelain, zirconia, and ceramic.
How Do I Choose the Right Type of Crown?
The suitable type of crown is chosen after consulting your dentist. The dentist examines your teeth and selects the best crown based on several factors, including:
– The tooth’s location
– The tooth’s function
– The color of your natural teeth
– The condition of your gums
Side Effects After Getting a Dental Crown
Although the main goal of a crown is to restore and protect the tooth, some side effects may occur after the procedure, such as:
– Pain or discomfort after getting the crown
– Tooth sensitivity
– Redness or irritation of the gums
Is Getting a Dental Crown Painful?
– In most cases, getting a dental crown is not painful.
– You may, however, experience some pain or discomfort afterward for several possible reasons.
– Choosing a skilled and experienced dentist reduces the risk of complications and side effects after crown placement.
How Long Does Pain Last After a Dental Crown?
The duration of pain after getting a crown varies from person to person and depends on:
– The underlying cause of the pain
– How quickly you seek treatment and whether the problem is addressed promptly or neglected
Causes of Pain After a Dental Crown
Pain after crown placement can occur for several reasons, including:
– The tooth nerve (pulp) was not treated when needed before placing the crown
– Placing a crown without properly removing dental decay
– A high crown that does not match the correct bite level
– A crown size that does not properly fit the tooth
– Incorrect crown placement or poor fit
– A crack or fracture in the tooth
– Allergic reaction or sensitivity to crown materials or to the local anesthetic
– Excessive pressure or biting force on the crown
– Gum inflammation around the crowned tooth
Treatment of Pain After a Dental Crown
If you experience pain after getting a crown, you should see your dentist to examine the tooth and identify the cause.
Once the cause is determined, treatment options may include:
Anti-inflammatory and Antibiotic Medications
If the pain is due to gum inflammation or infection, the dentist may prescribe anti-inflammatory medication and, when indicated, antibiotics to relieve pain and control the infection.
Correcting the Crown Placement
If the pain is caused by improper crown placement, the dentist will assess the fit and adjust or re-cement the crown properly.
Adjusting the Crown Height to Match Your Bite
If the crown is higher than your other teeth, the dentist will adjust and reshape it so it aligns with your normal bite and with the rest of your teeth.
Adjusting the Crown Size to Fit the Tooth
If the crown is loose or oversized compared with the tooth, the dentist may remove it and adjust or remake it so that it fits the tooth correctly.
Root Canal Treatment
If the pain is due to inflammation or infection of the tooth nerve (pulpitis), a root canal treatment may be needed to clean and seal the root canals, followed by placing or replacing the crown.
Tips to Reduce Pain After a Dental Crown
Here are some tips to help reduce discomfort after getting a crown:
– Avoid biting or chewing hard foods directly on the crowned tooth, especially right after the procedure.
– Maintain good oral hygiene and brush gently twice a day.
– Use a toothpaste suitable for sensitive teeth if recommended by your dentist.
– Clean food debris around the crowned tooth using dental floss or interdental brushes.
– Avoid very hot or very cold drinks for a short period after crown placement if your tooth is sensitive.
– Visit your dentist if you experience persistent pain to identify the cause and receive appropriate treatment.
Dr. Fares Matouk
– Bachelor’s degree in Dental Medicine and Surgery from Al-Qalamoun University – Damascus.
– Completed specialized courses in cosmetic dentistry and smile design.
– 11 years of experience in restorative and cosmetic dentistry.
Areas of interest and expertise include:
– All types of dental prosthetics (bridges, crowns, and bonded dental veneers such as veneers and lumineers)
– Cosmetic dental services (esthetic fillings, tooth restoration, Hollywood smile)
– Comprehensive smile makeover planning and treatment
– Root canal treatment and tooth extractions
