Tooth Sensitivity After Crown: Causes, Symptoms, and Remedies

Tooth sensitivity after crown is a common complaint among people who have undergone a dental crown procedure. A dental crown is a cap that covers a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, size, and function. It can also improve the appearance of the tooth and protect it from further damage. However, some people may experience pain, discomfort, or sensitivity in the crowned tooth or the surrounding area after the procedure. This can be caused by various factors, such as the exposure of the dentin layer of the tooth, the pressure of the crown on the nerve, the infection or decay under the crown, or the misalignment of the bite. Tooth sensitivity after crown usually subsides within a few days or weeks, but it can sometimes persist or worsen over time. In this blog post, we will explain the causes, symptoms, and remedies of tooth sensitivity after crown. We will also provide some tips on how to prevent and cope with this condition.

Causes of Tooth Sensitivity After Crown

There are several possible causes of tooth sensitivity after crown, such as:

• Dentin exposure: This is when the enamel layer of the tooth is removed or reduced to accommodate the crown. The enamel protects the dentin, which is the yellowish tissue that makes up the middle layer of the tooth. The dentin contains thousands of tiny tubes that connect to the pulp, which is the innermost layer that contains the nerves and blood vessels. When the dentin is exposed, it becomes more sensitive to stimuli such as temperature, pressure, or certain foods and drinks.
• Nerve irritation: This is when the nerve inside the pulp is irritated or inflamed by the crown procedure. This can happen because of the heat or vibration generated by the dental drill, or because of an allergic reaction to the cement or material used for the crown. Nerve irritation can cause pain or sensitivity that may last for a few hours to a few days.
• Infection or decay: This is when bacteria enter under the crown and cause an infection or decay in the tooth or gum. This can happen because of a poor fit of the crown, a crack or gap in the crown, or a leakage of the cement that bonds the crown to the tooth. Infection or decay can cause pain, swelling, fever, bad taste, or pus in the mouth.
• Bite interference: This is when the crown is too high or too low compared to the other teeth, causing an imbalance in the bite. This can affect the alignment of the jaw and cause pressure or pain in the crowned tooth or other areas of the mouth.

Symptoms of Tooth Sensitivity After Crown

The main symptom of tooth sensitivity after crown is a temporary, uncomfortable sensation in the crowned tooth or nearby area when exposed to certain triggers. These triggers can include:

• Hot or cold foods or drinks
• When air contacts the tooth, like when you breathe through your mouth
• Sweet or acidic foods and drinks, such as candy, juice, or wine
• Biting down or chewing
• Brushing or flossing

The sensitivity can range from mild to severe, depending on the cause and individual factors. It can last from a few seconds to several minutes after removing the trigger. It can also affect one or more teeth at a time.

Remedies for Tooth Sensitivity After Crown

The remedies for tooth sensitivity after crown depend on the cause and severity of the condition. In most cases, no treatment is necessary as the sensitivity will go away on its own within a few days or weeks. However, some steps that can help reduce or manage the sensitivity are:

• Avoiding or minimizing exposure to triggers that cause sensitivity
• Using desensitizing toothpaste or mouthwash that contain ingredients that block the nerve impulses that cause pain
• Applying fluoride gel or varnish to strengthen the enamel and protect the dentin
• Taking over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to ease discomfort
• Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle brushing technique to avoid further irritation
• Wearing a night guard to prevent grinding or clenching of teeth that can increase pressure on the crowned tooth

If these measures do not help or if the sensitivity lasts longer than two weeks, it is advisable to contact your dentist for further evaluation and treatment. Your dentist may:

• Adjust your bite by reshaping or replacing your crown to ensure proper alignment and fit
• Replace your crown with a different material if you have an allergic reaction to it
• Seal any cracks or gaps in your crown that may expose the nerve endings
• Perform root canal therapy if you have an infection or decay that cannot be healed by other means

Prevention of Tooth Sensitivity After Crown

The best way to prevent tooth sensitivity after crown is to prevent the need for a crown in the first place. This can be done by:

• Practicing good oral hygiene habits such as brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash
• Making regular visits to your dentist for check-ups and cleanings
• Consuming a well-balanced diet that restricts sugary and acidic foods and beverages
• Drinking plenty of water to keep your mouth hydrated and wash away food particles and bacteria
• Quitting smoking and avoiding tobacco products that can stain your teeth and damage your gums
• Wearing a mouth guard or helmet when playing sports or engaging in activities that can cause trauma to your teeth

Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth Sensitivity After Crown

Here are some common questions and answers about tooth sensitivity after crown:

• Q: How long does tooth sensitivity after crown last?
• A: Tooth sensitivity after crown usually lasts for a few days to a few weeks, depending on the cause and individual factors. However, if it lasts longer than two weeks or gets worse over time, you should contact your dentist for further evaluation and treatment.

• Q: How can I tell if my tooth sensitivity is normal or a sign of a problem?
• A: Some degree of tooth sensitivity after crown is normal and expected, as the crown procedure can irritate or inflame the nerve inside the tooth. However, if the sensitivity is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, swelling, pus, or bad taste in the mouth, it may indicate a problem such as infection, decay, or allergic reaction. In such cases, you should contact your dentist as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment.

• Q: Can I use whitening products if I have tooth sensitivity after crown?
• A: Whitening products such as strips, gels, or trays can increase tooth sensitivity by making the enamel more porous and exposing the dentin. Therefore, it is not recommended to use them if you have tooth sensitivity after crown. You should wait until your sensitivity subsides before using any whitening products. You should also consult your dentist before using any whitening products to make sure they are safe and suitable for your teeth.

Related Topic: Tooth Sensitivity After Filling: What You Need to Know

Conclusion

Tooth sensitivity after crown is a common and normal response to the dental crown procedure. It can occur because of various reasons such as dentin exposure, nerve irritation, infection or decay, or bite interference. It can cause pain or discomfort when exposed to temperature, pressure, or certain foods and drinks. It usually goes away on its own within a few days or weeks. However, if it persists or worsens after two weeks, it may indicate a problem and require contacting the dentist.

Tooth sensitivity after crown can be treated by avoiding or minimizing exposure to triggers that cause sensitivity, using desensitizing products, taking pain relievers, or visiting the dentist for further intervention. Tooth sensitivity after crown can be prevented by preventing the need for a crown in the first place, practicing good oral hygiene habits, visiting the dentist regularly, eating a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, quitting smoking, and wearing protective gear when playing sports.

We hope this blog post has helped you understand more about tooth sensitivity after crown. If you have any questions or concerns about this condition, please feel free to contact us or leave a comment below. We are happy to help you with your dental needs.