Tooth sensitivity after crown installation is common. After the dental crown procedure, you may experience cold or heat sensitivity and sudden bursts of pain or discomfort while chewing or drinking.
Crown tooth sensitivity usually resolves by itself within a few days or weeks of dental crown placement. Sometimes the sudden pain and sensitivity can also be a sign of a serious concern including tooth decay, a poorly fitted crown, or a change in the alignment of your teeth.
If you’re unsure whether the sensitive teeth after the crown installation are due to the procedure or a more serious concern, this article is for you. Let’s look into the signs and symptoms of sensitivity after a dental crown procedure and tips to minimize the condition.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity After Crown?
Tooth sensitivity after the crown installation occurs when the middle layer of the tooth or dentin is exposed to fix the artificial crown.
The middle layer of dentin is protected with an outer covering called enamel, which protects it from external stimuli, including hot or cold temperature and pressure. When the enamel is removed, several tiny, fluid-filled channels of the dentin are exposed to the stimuli.
When the temperature changes, the fluid in the dentin moves to the nerve-rich center of the tooth or dental pulp. This pressure on the nerve causes sensitivity.
A lot of factors can increase sensitivity, including:
1. Cement from the Crown
Certain types of cement used to bond the crown may change the pressure within the dentine tubules. At times, this may cause allergy leading to inflammation and increased sensitivity.
2. Tooth Decay or Infection
If the dental crown is incorrectly placed or the dental cement comes off, the bacteria can creep beneath the crown and cause infection or tooth decay. Tooth decay is one of the main causes of increased sensitivity.
3. Poorly Fitted Crown
If you experience pain upon biting into your food, this may be due to the incorrect size of the crown. If a dental crown is too small or too large, it can lead to tooth sensitivity after crown placement.
What are the Triggers of Sensitive Teeth after Crown Placement?
Changes in temperature or mechanical pressure trigger tooth sensitivity after crown installation. However, certain sweet or acidic foods can also change the movement of fluids in the dentine tubules. Other possible triggers include:
- Eating hard foods after the crown procedure.
- Drinking cold drinks and foods, including ice cream.
- Consuming hot drinks and foods.
- Brushing too hard with abrasive toothpaste.
- Certain mouthwashes.
- Use a water flosser with cold water.
- Grinding your teeth.
- Chewing gum.
- Tobacco.
It is also important to note that not everyone who gets a crown develops tooth sensitivity. If you are one of those who develop a sensitivity, the triggers or experience would differ from others. Usually, the symptoms can take up to 6 weeks to completely subside.
What are the Symptoms of Tooth Sensitivity after Crown Installation?
The common symptoms of tooth sensitivity after a crown procedure include:
- Extreme sensitivity to cold or hot temperatures in the mouth.
- Sudden sharp and shooting pain when touching or applying pressure to the crown.
- Sensitivity to acidic and sweet foods or drinks.
- Difficulty brushing or flossing your teeth.
- Change in chewing pattern due to constant tooth pain.
- Pain due to abrasive toothpaste and certain mouthwashes.
How to Reduce Tooth Sensitivity after a Crown Procedure?
Tooth sensitivity can effectively be managed with a few simple tips:
1. Practice a Good Dental Hygiene Routine
A good dental hygiene practice goes a long way and helps in minimizing several dental health issues. This includes brushing at least twice a day, flossing once a day, and avoiding sugary foods, sodas, and drinks.
2. Use Sensitive Toothpaste
Your dentist will likely recommend an over-the-counter toothpaste specially designed for sensitive teeth. If not, make sure to ask your dentist about it.
3. Avoid Scrubbing Your Teeth
Use toothbrushes made with soft bristles that cause minimal pressure on the teeth. Avoid aggressive brushing and rather use soft and circular strokes.
4. Chew Gently
Avoid crunchy foods, including crackers, candies, or hard vegetables, until your sensitivity subsides. If you find chewing difficult, try chewing on the opposite side of the mouth or eat softer foods until your symptoms ease.
Takeaway
Tooth sensitivity after crown placement is common. It includes sensitivity to cold or hot foods and drinks which tends to subside within a few days. In some cases, it may take up to 6 weeks for the symptoms to completely subside.
Get Your Sensitive Teeth Checked at Hopkins Family Dental!
Whether you’re suffering from the after-effects of a dental crown procedure or generalized tooth sensitivity, our expert dentists at Hopkins Family Dental can help devise an appropriate treatment plan that prioritizes fast recovery and comfort.
Schedule an appointment with us today!
You can also contact us at (952) 935-2121.
Alternatively, you can visit us at 1919 Main street, Hopkins, MN 55343.
