A dental crown, while designed to protect and strengthen a damaged tooth, can sometimes cause discomfort. Understanding why your crown hurts is crucial for addressing the issue promptly and effectively. This comprehensive guide explores various reasons for crown pain and suggests potential solutions.
Common Causes of Dental Crown Pain
Several factors can contribute to pain emanating from a dental crown. Let's delve into the most frequent culprits:
1. Irritation of the Gums Around the Crown:
This is often the most common cause of crown-related discomfort. Poorly fitting crowns can irritate the gum tissue, leading to inflammation, swelling, and pain. Bacteria can also accumulate under an ill-fitting crown, causing infection. This irritation can manifest as a dull ache, throbbing pain, or sensitivity to touch.
2. Inflammation or Infection of the Tooth Underneath the Crown:
Even with a crown in place, underlying tooth decay or infection can still occur. This can cause significant pain, especially when biting or chewing. The infection may have been present before the crown was placed or may have developed subsequently due to leakage around the crown.
3. Crown Loose or Shifting:
Over time, a crown can become loose or shift slightly due to wear and tear or trauma. This can lead to pain, sensitivity to temperature changes, or a feeling that the crown is "high" or uneven. A loose crown can also allow bacteria to enter, leading to further complications.
4. Bite Problems:
An improper bite (malocclusion) can cause excessive pressure on a crowned tooth, resulting in pain or discomfort. This is especially true if the crown is slightly higher or lower than the surrounding teeth, leading to uneven pressure distribution.
5. Sinus Infection:
In some cases, pain in the upper teeth, particularly those with crowns, can be referred pain from a sinus infection. The proximity of the maxillary sinuses to the roots of the upper teeth can cause pain to be felt in the teeth, even though the actual problem lies in the sinuses.
6. Trauma to the Crowned Tooth:
Impact or injury to the crowned tooth can cause pain, even if the crown itself is intact. Internal damage to the tooth underneath the crown can occur without any visible signs on the exterior.
7. Recent Dental Work:
Immediately following a crown placement, some degree of sensitivity or discomfort is normal. This usually subsides within a few days. However, prolonged or severe pain could indicate a problem.
What to Do if Your Dental Crown Hurts
If you experience pain associated with a dental crown, it's crucial to contact your dentist immediately. Delaying treatment can worsen the problem and potentially lead to more extensive and costly procedures.
When to Seek Immediate Dental Attention:
Seek immediate dental care if your crown pain is severe, accompanied by swelling, fever, or other signs of infection. Do not attempt home remedies for serious pain or infection.
This information is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified dental professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment. They can properly diagnose the cause of your crown pain and recommend the appropriate course of action.
