Remedies for Dental Crown Pain

Your dental crown might seem like it is strong to the point that it will last forever. However, it is possible for some dental crown problems to occur after a couple years of living with the crown. In some cases, minor issues with the crown pop up in the days or weeks following its placement. Thankfully, we can remedy each of these crown challenges.

Common dental crown issues

Dental Crown Pain

If you experience dental crown pain and you did not have a root canal prior to the placement of the crown, the pain may be due to a traumatized nerve. If the bite is out of alignment, it can spur irritation, especially if you grind your teeth while sleeping. There might be issues with prior fillings that increases the chances of bacterial infection along the nerve root.

Sometimes, people can relieve small amounts of pain with the use of a mouth guard. Others find relief with a more thorough brushing and flossing regimen. Above all, a visit to the dentist will help to diagnose the problem and perform the appropriate alteration, repair or replacement. In the meantime, use an over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medication to alleviate the pain.

Dental Crown Sensitivity

If your dental crown is sensitive to hot and/or cold temperatures in the days after it is placed, do not panic. The tooth will likely be thermally sensitive along the edges of the gum line after the crown is placed. In some cases, the dentin could risk exposure if too much enamel is gone.

If the crown does not fully cover the tooth, such dentin will come into contact with food and the tongue.  If this occurs, a dentist will likely recommend a toothpaste specifically designed for highly sensitive teeth.  Alternatively, the dentist can apply a solution to the crown that guards this tiny portion of exposed dentin.

Pain in the Gum Tissues

Crowns typically end at or below the gums to prevent problems with thermal sensitivity.  If the gums are painful after the tooth-trimming and crown-fitting procedures, the patient should take an NSAID and rinse with lukewarm salt water upwards of three times each day.

Issues With Bite

The dentist will analyze how the dental crown connects to the other teeth before applying the cement.  However, it still might be possible for the crown to be misshapen.  You will notice this flawed shape when you bite.

If you place considerable pressure on the tooth in question on a regular basis, it will eventually be traumatized and start to hurt.  The dentist can easily reshape your crown to make eating as comfortable as possible.

Nerve Issues

If the placement of a crown on the tooth to remedy a decayed or fractured tooth affects the nerves, you will experience discomfort.  The nerves are positioned in the softcore portion of the tooth pulp.  If this area of the tooth is affected, the dentist might determine the best course of action is to perform a root canal on the tooth and add a new crown.

Call (706) 425-6240 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Call Dental Center in our Dalton dental office.