Home » Tooth Pain Under a Crown: Causes And Solutions

Tooth Pain Under a Crown: Causes And Solutions

by instadontics.com
7 minutes read

Tooth pain under a crown can be a frustrating and confusing experience. You’ve invested time and money into getting a dental crown to protect or restore a damaged tooth, only to find yourself dealing with discomfort or pain. This type of pain can range from a dull ache to sharp, throbbing sensations, and it often comes and goes, making it difficult to pinpoint the cause. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the reasons behind tooth pain under a crown, the types of pain you might experience, and what you can do to find relief.


What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are commonly used to:

  • Protect a weak tooth from breaking.
  • Restore a broken or severely worn-down tooth.
  • Cover a tooth with a large filling.
  • Hold a dental bridge in place.
  • Cover a dental implant or discolored tooth.

While crowns are designed to protect your tooth, they can sometimes cause pain or discomfort, especially if there’s an underlying issue.


Why Does Tooth Pain Under a Crown Happen?

Tooth pain under a crown can occur for several reasons. Understanding the cause is the first step toward finding relief. Here are the most common causes:


1. Tooth Decay Under the Crown

Even though a crown covers your tooth, the underlying tooth structure is still vulnerable to decay if proper oral hygiene isn’t maintained. Bacteria can seep under the crown and cause decay, leading to pain.

  • Symptoms: Dull, throbbing pain that comes and goes, sensitivity to hot or cold foods, and bad breath.
  • Why It Happens: Poor oral hygiene, a loose crown, or a cracked crown can allow bacteria to enter.

2. Nerve Irritation or Damage

The tooth under the crown still has a nerve, and if the crown is placed too close to the nerve or if the tooth was already irritated, it can cause pain.

  • Symptoms: Sharp, shooting pain that comes and goes, especially when biting down.
  • Why It Happens: The crown may be pressing on the nerve, or the tooth may have been traumatized during the crown preparation process.

3. Improper Fit or Loose Crown

A crown that doesn’t fit properly or has become loose can cause pain by allowing bacteria to enter or by putting pressure on the tooth and surrounding tissues.

  • Symptoms: Pain when chewing, sensitivity to pressure, and a feeling of looseness in the crown.
  • Why It Happens: The crown may have been improperly fitted, or the cement holding it in place may have worn off.

4. Gum Recession or Infection

Gum recession or infection around the crowned tooth can expose the root or cause inflammation, leading to pain.

  • Symptoms: Dull, constant ache, redness or swelling around the gum line, and sensitivity to touch.
  • Why It Happens: Poor oral hygiene, aggressive brushing, or periodontal disease can cause gum issues.

5. Cracked or Damaged Crown

A cracked or damaged crown can expose the underlying tooth to bacteria and cause pain.

  • Symptoms: Sharp pain when biting down, sensitivity to temperature changes, and visible damage to the crown.
  • Why It Happens: Trauma, grinding your teeth (bruxism), or wear and tear over time can damage the crown.

6. Sinus Pressure (For Upper Teeth)

If the crowned tooth is in the upper jaw, sinus pressure or infection can cause referred pain that feels like it’s coming from the tooth.

  • Symptoms: Dull, aching pain that comes and goes, especially when bending over or lying down.
  • Why It Happens: Sinus infections or congestion can put pressure on the roots of the upper teeth.

Types of Pain Under a Crown

The type of pain you experience can provide clues about the underlying issue. Here are the most common types of pain associated with a crowned tooth:


1. Dull, Aching Pain

  • Description: A constant, low-level ache that may come and go.
  • Possible Causes: Tooth decay, gum recession, or sinus pressure.
  • What to Do: Maintain good oral hygiene and schedule a dental check-up to rule out decay or infection.

2. Sharp, Shooting Pain

  • Description: Sudden, intense pain that lasts for a few seconds, often triggered by biting or chewing.
  • Possible Causes: Nerve irritation, a cracked crown, or an improper fit.
  • What to Do: Avoid chewing on the affected side and see your dentist to check for cracks or nerve issues.

3. Throbbing Pain

  • Description: A pulsating pain that may worsen at night or when lying down.
  • Possible Causes: Infection, abscess, or inflammation of the nerve.
  • What to Do: Seek immediate dental care, as this could indicate a serious issue like an abscess.

4. Sensitivity to Hot or Cold

  • Description: Pain or discomfort when consuming hot or cold foods or beverages.
  • Possible Causes: Exposed dentin, nerve irritation, or a loose crown.
  • What to Do: Use a toothpaste for sensitive teeth and avoid extreme temperatures until you can see your dentist.

5. Pain When Biting Down

  • Description: Pain that occurs only when you bite down or apply pressure to the tooth.
  • Possible Causes: A high crown, cracked tooth, or improper fit.
  • What to Do: Avoid chewing on the affected side and schedule a dental appointment to adjust the crown.

6. Intermittent Pain

  • Description: Pain that comes and goes without a clear pattern.
  • Possible Causes: Early stages of decay, gum issues, or sinus pressure.
  • What to Do: Monitor the pain and see your dentist if it persists or worsens.

How to Manage Tooth Pain Under a Crown

While you should always consult your dentist for persistent or severe pain, there are some steps you can take at home to manage the discomfort:


1. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

  • Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
  • Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from around the crown.
  • Use an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce bacteria.

2. Use Pain Relievers

  • Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help reduce pain and inflammation.
  • Follow the dosage instructions on the label.

3. Apply a Cold Compress

  • If you’re experiencing swelling or throbbing pain, apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek for 15-20 minutes at a time.

4. Avoid Trigger Foods

  • Stay away from hot, cold, sweet, or hard foods that could aggravate the pain.
  • Stick to soft foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, and soup.

5. Use a Night Guard

  • If you grind your teeth at night, a night guard can protect your crown and reduce pain caused by pressure.

6. Rinse with Saltwater

  • Mix 1 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and rinse your mouth for 30 seconds to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria.

When to See a Dentist

While home remedies can provide temporary relief, it’s important to see your dentist if you experience any of the following:

  • Persistent or severe pain that doesn’t improve with painkillers.
  • Swelling, redness, or pus around the crowned tooth.
  • A loose or cracked crown.
  • Pain that interferes with your daily activities or sleep.

Your dentist can diagnose the underlying issue and recommend appropriate treatment, such as:

  • Adjusting or replacing the crown.
  • Treating tooth decay or infection.
  • Performing a root canal if the nerve is damaged.
  • Addressing gum disease or recession.

Preventing Tooth Pain Under a Crown

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to avoid tooth pain under a crown:

  1. Choose a Skilled Dentist: Ensure your crown is placed by an experienced dentist to avoid issues like improper fit or nerve damage.
  2. Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush, floss, and rinse regularly to prevent decay and gum disease.
  3. Avoid Hard Foods: Don’t chew on ice, hard candy, or other foods that could damage your crown.
  4. Wear a Night Guard: If you grind your teeth, a night guard can protect your crown and natural teeth.
  5. Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Regular check-ups can help catch and address issues early.

Tooth pain under a crown can be unsettling, but it’s often a sign that something needs attention. Whether the pain is dull and constant or sharp and intermittent, understanding the possible causes and taking proactive steps can help you find relief. Remember, while home remedies can provide temporary comfort, it’s essential to consult your dentist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

By maintaining good oral hygiene, addressing issues early, and working with a skilled dentist, you can protect your crowned tooth and enjoy a pain-free smile. Don’t ignore the pain—take action today to ensure your dental health and overall well-being.

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