Dental crowns are a popular and effective solution for restoring damaged or decayed teeth. However, some patients experience pain or sensitivity after crown placement. This blog post from Excellence in Dentistry, led by Dr. Nancy Rotroff and Dr. Gerard Wasselle, aims to shed light on the common causes of dental crown pain and what you can do to find relief.
Why Is My Crown Causing Pain?
Temporary Sensitivity: Following a crown procedure, it's normal to experience some temporary discomfort or sensitivity as the tooth and surrounding tissues adjust. This sensitivity may include:
Improper Crown Fit: An ill-fitting crown can cause bite misalignment, leading to pain in the crowned tooth, surrounding teeth, and even the jaw. Symptoms can range from mild discomfort when biting down to chronic pain. At Excellence in Dentistry, our highly trained and experienced dentists take meticulous measurements and utilize advanced techniques to ensure your crown fits perfectly from the start. If you suspect an issue with your dental crown, Dr. Rotroff or Dr. Wasselle can still assess your crown and either adjust it or create a new one for optimal comfort and oral health.
Receding Gum Line: Healthy gums should surround your crown. However, receding gums can expose the tooth root, which is more sensitive. This sensitivity can be triggered by hot, cold, or sugary substances. Receding gums can be caused by factors like aggressive brushing, gum disease, or aging.
Hidden Decay: Many people mistakenly believe a crowned tooth is immune to decay. Unfortunately, bacteria can infiltrate the margins between the crown and tooth, causing decay beneath the crown. This decay can be quite painful because if it affects the tooth's core, where the nerves reside. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent further complications and potential tooth loss. During your regular dental checkup, your dentist will use xrays and an oral exam to to ensure decay is not compromising your dental crown.
Cracked or Damaged Crown: While durable, crowns can crack or chip due to teeth grinding (bruxism), chewing hard foods, or trauma. A compromised crown can't protect the tooth and might create sharp edges that irritate your tongue and cheeks, causing discomfort. To prevent damage from bruxism, consider getting a night guard to protect your teeth and any dental work, such as crowns. Night guards are mouthpieces worn usually at night to prevent teeth grinding and clenching. Talk to your dentist about whether a night guard is right for you.
Finding Relief:
If you experience persistent or severe pain with your crown, Nancy Rotroff, DDS, MAGD, and Gerard Wasselle, DMD, are here to help. If you are looking for an emergency dentist near me, call Excellence in Dentistry at 954-928-1666.
Dr. Nancy Rotroff is a highly trained and experienced dentist in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Known for excellence in all aspects of dentistry, Dr. Rotroff utilizes the latest technology to ensure your treatment is comfortable, safe, and effective. Her dedication to continuing education is evidenced by her prestigious Mastership Award from the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), placing her among the top dentists in the country.
Dr. Gerard Wasselle brings a wealth of experience to the practice. After practicing in Alaska for many years, Dr. Wasselle returned to his hometown of Fort Lauderdale. He has a particular passion for oral surgery, dental implants, and full mouth rehabilitation, and has received advanced training in these areas to provide the most innovative and long-lasting solutions for his patients.
Together, Dr. Rotroff and Dr. Wasselle offer comprehensive dental care with a commitment to patient comfort and exceptional results. Call Excellence in Dentistry today at (954) 928-1666 to schedule an appointment and restore your oral health.
