Why Does My Tooth Hurt After a Crown? What’s Normal and What’s Not

Is it normal to experience pain after getting a dental crown? Dental crowns are designed to restore damaged teeth. However, while they offer protection and restoration, some patients may experience discomfort after the procedure. Is pain part of the healing process, or does it need further attention?  

Below, we’ll explore why your tooth might hurt after getting a dental crown, what’s considered normal discomfort, and when to seek help from a dentist in 37128.  

Understanding the Purpose of a Dental Crown

A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers a tooth to restore its shape, size, and function. It is often recommended when a tooth is significantly weakened or damaged beyond what a simple filling can repair.

When Are Dental Crowns Needed?

Crowns are commonly used in cases of:

• Severe tooth decay: A crown provides structural support when a cavity is too large to be treated with a filling.

• Cracked or broken teeth: A crown reinforces the tooth, preventing further damage and potential tooth loss.

• Root canal treatment: Since root canal-treated teeth can become brittle, crowns protect them from fractures.

• Large fillings that weaken the tooth: Teeth with large fillings are prone to cracking, making crowns a preferred solution for reinforcement.

• Cosmetic enhancements: Crowns can improve the appearance of discolored, misshapen, or uneven teeth, giving a more uniform and aesthetically pleasing smile.

How Do Crowns Work?

Crowns act as a protective shield, fully encasing the visible portion of the tooth above the gumline. They are crafted from various materials such as porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of these, ensuring durability and a natural look. Once cemented in place, a crown restores the tooth’s function, allowing for normal biting and chewing.

While crowns are an excellent long-term solution, preparing and placing them involves reshaping the tooth, which can sometimes cause temporary discomfort. Understanding what to expect can help patients feel more at ease about the procedure.

Is It Normal to Have Pain After a Crown?

Some degree of discomfort is common after getting a crown, especially within the first few days. Your mouth has gone through a procedure that may have involved reshaping the tooth, adjusting the bite, or even a root canal. Pain usually subsides as your mouth heals, but it’s important to recognize what’s normal and what isn’t.

Normal Post-Crown Discomfort:

It’s normal to experience some discomfort in the days following a crown placement. This is due to your tooth adjusting to its new restoration and potential nerve sensitivity.

• Sensitivity to hot and cold: Your tooth may feel sensitive when consuming hot or cold foods and drinks. This is usually due to nerve irritation inside the tooth, especially if the tooth’s enamel was reshaped significantly.

• Mild soreness: You may experience soreness around the gum line where the crown was placed. This is usually due to minor inflammation caused by the procedure and should fade within a few days.

• Tightness or pressure: Your bite may feel different as your mouth adapts to the new crown. This tightness or pressure sensation should subside as your jaw muscles and teeth get accustomed to the new fit.

• Occasional mild discomfort when chewing: Your tooth might feel slightly tender when you first start chewing, but this should improve within a week.

Signs of a More Serious Issue:

While minor discomfort is expected, some symptoms could indicate an underlying problem that requires attention from your dentist:

• Sharp, prolonged pain: If pain lasts more than two weeks or worsens over time, it may indicate an underlying tooth or nerve issue.

• Pain when biting down: If your tooth hurts when you chew, it could mean that the crown is slightly too high or misaligned with your natural bite, putting unnecessary pressure on the tooth.

• Swelling or pus around the tooth: This could be a sign of infection beneath the crown, which needs immediate dental attention.

• Throbbing pain that doesn’t improve: Persistent, throbbing pain might indicate nerve damage or an infection that could require a root canal.

• Loose or wobbly crown: If your crown doesn’t feel secure, it could be improperly fitted or at risk of coming off, which may expose the tooth to bacteria and decay.

If you experience any of these symptoms, you must contact your dentist as soon as possible for an evaluation and necessary adjustments or treatment.

Common Causes of Pain After a Crown

Several factors can contribute to tooth pain after receiving a dental crown. Understanding these causes can help you determine whether your discomfort is part of the healing process or if you need to consult your dentist.

1. Temporary Nerve Sensitivity

When a crown is placed, some of the tooth’s enamel is removed, exposing the dentin layer underneath. This can cause temporary nerve irritation, leading to sensitivity.

Solution: Avoid extremely hot or cold foods for a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers and desensitizing toothpaste may help.

2. High Bite Adjustment Issues

If your crown is slightly too high, it may not align properly with your other teeth. This can put extra pressure on the crowned tooth, causing pain when you bite down.

Solution: If you notice discomfort when chewing, visit your dentist for an adjustment. This simple fix can relieve pressure and pain.

3. Gum Irritation or Inflammation

The gums around the newly crowned tooth may become irritated due to the dental work. Swelling and tenderness around the crown are common but should subside within a few days.

Solution: Maintain good oral hygiene by gently brushing and flossing around the crown. A saltwater rinse can help reduce inflammation.

4. Infection or Decay Under the Crown

If decay was present beneath the crown or bacteria entered during the procedure, an infection could develop, leading to persistent pain.

Solution: Contact your dentist if the pain worsens or is accompanied by swelling or pus. You may need antibiotics or a root canal to address the infection.

5. Poor Crown Fit

If a crown is not properly shaped or fitted to your tooth, it can create pressure points or irritation in the surrounding tissue. This can result in prolonged discomfort, even if the crown appears stable.

Solution: Your dentist can adjust the shape and fit of the crown to match your bite better and eliminate unnecessary pressure.

6. Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)

Patients who grind their teeth at night (bruxism) may experience discomfort with a new crown due to excessive pressure and wear. Grinding can cause soreness and even damage the crown over time.

Solution: If you suspect bruxism, your dentist may recommend a night guard to protect your teeth and crown while you sleep.

How Long Should Pain Last After a Crown?

The duration of pain depends on the underlying cause:

• Mild sensitivity: A few days to a week

• Gum soreness: 1-2 weeks

• Bite adjustment pain: Should resolve after a dental visit

• Infection or nerve-related pain: Requires treatment and may take longer to heal

If your pain persists beyond two weeks, worsens, or includes swelling, throbbing, or difficulty eating, contact your dentist.

Tips to Relieve Pain After a Dental Crown

While some discomfort is normal, you can take steps to ease the pain and support healing:

• Use over-the-counter pain relievers: Pain relief medications can help reduce inflammation and manage mild to moderate pain. Be sure to follow the dosage instructions and consult your doctor if you have any medical conditions that may limit their use.

• Avoid extremely hot or cold foods and drinks: Since sensitivity is common after a crown, avoid consuming very hot coffee, tea, ice cream, or chilled beverages. These extreme temperatures can trigger pain in the newly crowned tooth.

• Stick to soft foods: Eating soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and smoothies can help prevent additional stress on the crown. Avoid biting into hard or crunchy foods, especially within the first few days after placement.

• Maintain proper oral hygiene: Continue brushing and flossing, but be gentle around the crowned tooth. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, and don't tug at the gum line, as this area may be slightly sensitive.

• Use a desensitizing toothpaste: If sensitivity lingers, consider switching to a toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth. These products contain ingredients like potassium nitrate, which helps reduce nerve irritation over time.

• Avoid chewing hard foods: Stay away from foods that require excessive force to chew, such as ice, nuts, hard candy, and tough meats. These can put unnecessary pressure on the crown, increasing discomfort and potentially damaging the restoration.

• Use a warm saltwater rinse: Rinsing your mouth with a warm saltwater solution (½ teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water) can help soothe gum irritation and reduce inflammation around the crowned tooth.

• Give it time: Your tooth may take a few days to adjust to the new crown. Be patient and allow your mouth to adapt. If pain persists beyond two weeks, contact your dentist for an evaluation.

When to Contact Your Dentist

While mild discomfort after a crown is normal, persistent or severe pain isn’t something to ignore. If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, schedule an appointment with your dentist:

• Pain lasting longer than two weeks

• Intense pain when biting down

• Swelling, redness, or pus around the crowned tooth

• Throbbing pain that keeps you awake at night

• A loose or dislodged crown

Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more serious dental issues, so it's important to seek professional care if you're experiencing prolonged discomfort.

Looking For a Reliable Dentist In 37128?

If you’re experiencing pain after a dental crown, our team at Stone Trace Family Dental is here to help. We’ll assess your situation, make necessary adjustments, and ensure your dental health is on the right track. Don’t wait for the pain to get worse—contact us today to schedule an appointment and get the relief you need!