Categories: Tooth infection

why does my crown hurt when i put pressure on

why does my crown hurt when i put pressure on

Dental crowns are a common solution for a variety of dental issues, from protecting a weakened tooth to restoring a broken one. They are designed to fit over the existing tooth and are typically made from materials like porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of these. While crowns can be an excellent long-term solution for many dental problems, some patients experience discomfort or pain when pressure is applied to the crowned tooth. This issue can be perplexing and concerning, leading many to ask, “Why does my crown hurt when I put pressure on it?” Understanding the potential causes of this pain can help in addressing the problem effectively.

Potential Causes of Crown Pain Under Pressure

1. Improper Fit

One of the most common reasons why a crown might hurt when pressure is applied is an improper fit. If the crown is too high or not aligned correctly with the opposing tooth, it can cause pain when you bite down. This is because the crown may interfere with your natural bite, leading to uneven pressure distribution and discomfort.

Solution: If you suspect that your crown is not fitting properly, it is crucial to visit your dentist. They can check the fit of the crown and make necessary adjustments. Sometimes, a minor adjustment is all that is needed to alleviate the pain.

2. Tooth Decay Under the Crown

Even though a crown covers the visible portion of a tooth, the underlying tooth structure can still be susceptible to decay. If bacteria manage to seep underneath the crown, they can cause decay and infection in the tooth. This decay can lead to pain when pressure is applied to the crown.

Solution: A dental examination and X-rays are necessary to determine if decay is present beneath the crown. If decay is detected, the dentist will need to remove the crown, treat the decay, and possibly place a new crown.

3. Nerve Damage or Infection

The tooth under the crown still has nerves, and these can become damaged or infected. If the nerve of the tooth is infected or inflamed, it can cause significant pain, especially when pressure is applied. This type of pain can be sharp, throbbing, or constant.

Solution: Treatment for nerve damage or infection typically involves root canal therapy. During a root canal, the dentist will remove the infected or damaged nerve tissue, clean the inside of the tooth, and then seal it. A new crown may be necessary after this procedure.

4. Gum Recession and Exposed Tooth Roots

Gum recession can expose the roots of your teeth, which are more sensitive than the crown-covered parts. If the gums around your crowned tooth have receded, you might experience pain when pressure is applied to the area.

Solution: Addressing gum recession might involve various treatments, including deep cleaning, scaling and root planing, or even gum graft surgery. Using a toothpaste for sensitive teeth can also help manage the discomfort.

5. Grinding and Clenching (Bruxism)

Many people grind or clench their teeth, especially at night. This condition, known as bruxism, can cause significant wear and tear on dental crowns, leading to pain and discomfort. The excessive pressure from grinding can also exacerbate any underlying issues with the crown or the tooth beneath it.

Solution: If bruxism is the cause of your pain, your dentist may recommend a custom mouthguard to wear at night. This guard can protect your teeth and crowns from the excessive pressure caused by grinding.

6. Recent Dental Work

Sometimes, pain after getting a new crown can simply be due to the recent dental work. The process of preparing the tooth, placing the crown, and adjusting the bite can cause temporary sensitivity and discomfort.

Solution: If the pain is mild and subsides within a few days, it may just be due to the recent dental procedure. Over-the-counter pain relievers and avoiding hard or sticky foods can help manage this temporary discomfort.

Diagnosing the Cause of Crown Pain

When you visit the dentist with the complaint, “Why does my crown hurt when I put pressure on it?” your dentist will perform a thorough examination to diagnose the cause. This examination may include:

  1. Visual Inspection: The dentist will examine the crown and surrounding teeth and gums to look for visible signs of issues, such as decay or gum recession.
  2. X-Rays: Dental X-rays can provide a detailed view of the tooth beneath the crown, helping to identify any decay, infection, or other issues not visible to the naked eye.
  3. Bite Test: The dentist may ask you to bite down on a special paper to check the alignment and fit of the crown.
  4. Sensitivity Tests: These tests can help determine if the tooth’s nerve is still healthy or if there is an infection.

Based on the findings, the dentist will recommend an appropriate course of treatment to address the pain.

Preventing Crown Pain

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to help prevent crown pain and ensure your dental crowns last as long as possible:

  1. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss regularly to prevent decay and gum disease. Use a fluoride toothpaste and consider an antiseptic mouthwash to reduce bacteria in your mouth.
  2. Regular Dental Checkups: Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. This allows your dentist to monitor the condition of your crowns and catch any potential issues early.
  3. Avoid Hard Foods: Hard foods can damage crowns, especially those made from porcelain. Avoid chewing on ice, hard candies, and other hard objects.
  4. Use a Mouthguard: If you grind your teeth at night, a mouthguard can protect your crowns and other teeth from damage.
  5. Address Gum Issues Promptly: If you notice signs of gum disease, such as bleeding or receding gums, seek treatment promptly to prevent further complications.

Conclusion

Experiencing pain when pressure is applied to a dental crown can be frustrating and concerning. By understanding the potential causes, you can take appropriate steps to address the issue and alleviate the pain. Whether it’s an improper fit, tooth decay, nerve damage, gum recession, bruxism, or recent dental work, a visit to your dentist is essential to diagnose and treat the problem effectively.

Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups are crucial in preventing crown pain and ensuring the longevity of your dental crowns. If you find yourself asking, “Why does my crown hurt when I put pressure on it?” don’t hesitate to seek professional advice and treatment. Your dentist is your best ally in maintaining a healthy and pain-free smile.

Detailed Exploration of Each Cause

To provide a more comprehensive understanding, let’s delve deeper into each potential cause of crown pain under pressure.

Improper Fit: The Nuances

An improperly fitted crown is often the result of inaccuracies during the crown fabrication or placement process. The precision in fitting a crown is critical because even a slight deviation can lead to discomfort. When a crown is too high, it can cause an occlusal (bite) interference, which means that your teeth are not meeting as they should when you bite down. This misalignment can create excessive pressure on the crowned tooth and cause pain.

The process of adjusting a crown involves the dentist using articulating paper to identify high spots in the bite. The dentist then makes small adjustments to the crown to ensure that it fits comfortably and does not interfere with your natural bite.

Tooth Decay Under the Crown: Hidden Dangers

Tooth decay under a crown is often insidious because it can go unnoticed until significant damage has occurred. Bacteria can enter through small gaps between the crown and the tooth, leading to decay. This is particularly common if the crown was not sealed properly or if the patient has poor oral hygiene practices.

If decay is found under a crown, the treatment typically involves removing the crown, cleaning out the decay, and placing a new crown. In some cases, if the decay is extensive, additional treatments such as a root canal might be necessary before a new crown can be placed.

Nerve Damage or Infection: Silent Threats

Nerve damage or infection is a serious issue that requires prompt attention. The nerves inside your teeth are sensitive, and any damage or infection can lead to significant pain. Common symptoms of nerve damage or infection include persistent pain, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, and swelling around the affected tooth.

A root canal is the standard treatment for nerve damage or infection. This procedure involves removing the infected or damaged nerve tissue, cleaning and disinfecting the inside of the tooth, and then sealing it to prevent further infection. After a root canal, a crown is typically placed to restore the tooth’s functionality and appearance.

Gum Recession and Exposed Tooth Roots: Sensitivity Issues

Gum recession exposes the more sensitive parts of your teeth, which can lead to pain when pressure is applied. The roots of your teeth are not covered by enamel, making them more susceptible to sensitivity and discomfort.

Treating gum recession might involve various approaches, including deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline, scaling and root planing to smooth the tooth roots and allow the gums to reattach, and in severe cases, gum graft surgery to restore the lost gum tissue.

Grinding and Clenching (Bruxism): Unseen Forces

Bruxism can cause a range of dental problems, including crown pain. The excessive pressure from grinding and clenching can lead to fractures in the crown, loosening of the crown, or even damage to the underlying tooth structure.

A custom-fitted mouthguard is the most common solution for bruxism. This mouthguard, worn at night, can help absorb the forces generated by grinding and clenching, protecting your crowns and teeth from damage.

Recent Dental Work: Temporary Sensitivity

Pain after recent dental work, including crown placement, is usually temporary. The process of preparing a tooth for a crown involves removing a significant portion of the tooth structure, which can cause temporary sensitivity and discomfort. Additionally, the dental cement used to secure the crown can cause irritation to the surrounding tissues.

This type of pain typically subsides within a few days to a week. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage the discomfort during this period. If the pain persists beyond this time frame, it is important to consult your dentist to rule out other potential causes.

Conclusion: Comprehensive Care and Follow-Up

Experiencing pain when pressure is applied to a crown can be a complex issue with multiple potential causes. By understanding these causes and seeking prompt dental care, you can address the problem effectively and return to a pain-free state. Whether the issue is an improper fit, underlying decay, nerve damage, gum recession, bruxism, or a recent dental procedure, a thorough examination by your dentist is essential for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

Maintaining good oral hygiene, regular dental checkups, and protecting your teeth from excessive force can help prevent crown pain and ensure the longevity of your dental restorations. If you find yourself asking, “Why does my crown hurt when I put pressure on it?” remember that prompt and professional dental care is the key to resolving the issue and maintaining a healthy smile.

When I Push Down on My Crown It Hurts?

Possible Causes and Considerations

Pain when pressing down on a dental crown can be indicative of several underlying issues. Here are some possible causes:

1. High Bite: If the crown is slightly higher than the surrounding teeth, it can cause discomfort or pain when you bite down. This issue can usually be resolved with a simple adjustment by your dentist.

2. Nerve Irritation: The tooth under the crown may have irritated or inflamed nerves. This can occur if the crown is pressing on the nerve or if there was previous trauma to the tooth.

3. Infection or Abscess: An infection or abscess in the tooth or surrounding gum tissue can cause significant pain, especially when pressure is applied.

4. Fracture: The tooth beneath the crown might have developed a fracture or crack, leading to pain when pressure is applied.

5. Gum Recession: If the gums around the crown have receded, it can expose sensitive areas of the tooth, causing pain.

Steps to Take

1. Schedule a Dental Appointment: See your dentist as soon as possible to diagnose the cause of the pain and receive appropriate treatment.

2. Avoid Hard Foods: Avoid chewing on hard foods that could exacerbate the pain until you can see your dentist.

3. Good Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent infection and reduce inflammation around the crown.

4. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Consider using over-the-counter pain relievers to manage discomfort until you can get professional help.

Should a Crown Be Sensitive to Pressure?

Understanding Sensitivity with Dental Crowns

A dental crown should generally not be sensitive to pressure. However, some sensitivity might be experienced immediately after the crown is placed, which should subside within a few days. Persistent sensitivity can indicate underlying issues:

1. Adjustment Period: It’s normal to have some sensitivity to pressure for a few days to weeks after getting a new crown as your mouth adjusts.

2. High Crown: If the crown is slightly higher than the surrounding teeth, it can cause sensitivity or discomfort when biting down.

3. Exposed Dentin: If the crown does not fully cover the tooth or if the tooth structure was reduced significantly, the dentin might be exposed, causing sensitivity to pressure.

4. Gum Recession: If gums have receded around the crown, the exposed root surface can be sensitive to pressure.

5. Underlying Decay or Damage: Decay or damage to the tooth beneath the crown can cause sensitivity when pressure is applied.

What to Do

1. Visit Your Dentist: If sensitivity persists beyond a few days, schedule an appointment with your dentist for evaluation.

2. Desensitizing Products: Use toothpaste for sensitive teeth and avoid extremely hot or cold foods and drinks.

3. Avoid Hard Foods: Avoid chewing on hard foods that could exacerbate sensitivity.

Why Does My Crown Hurt When I Put Pressure on It Years Later?

Long-Term Crown Pain Causes

Experiencing pain when applying pressure to a crown years after it was placed can indicate several possible issues:

1. Wear and Tear: Over time, crowns can wear down or develop tiny fractures, leading to discomfort when pressure is applied.

2. New Decay: Decay can develop under the crown, affecting the tooth structure and causing pain.

3. Gum Disease: Periodontal disease can affect the gums and bone supporting the tooth, leading to pain around the crown.

4. Root Infection: An infection in the tooth’s root or surrounding bone can develop even years after a crown is placed, causing pain when pressure is applied.

5. Crown or Tooth Fracture: A fracture in the crown or the tooth beneath it can lead to pain when biting or chewing.

6. Nerve Issues: Changes in the nerve inside the tooth, such as inflammation or infection, can cause pain under the crown.

Addressing Long-Term Pain

1. Dental Evaluation: See your dentist for a thorough evaluation to determine the cause of the pain and appropriate treatment.

2. Imaging: X-rays or other imaging techniques may be necessary to identify underlying issues not visible to the naked eye.

3. Treatment Options: Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may involve adjusting or replacing the crown, treating decay, addressing gum disease, or performing a root canal.

How Do You Stop a Crown from Hurting?

Steps to Alleviate Crown Pain

If your dental crown is causing pain, several steps can help alleviate discomfort:

1. Identify the Cause: Visit your dentist to diagnose the underlying cause of the pain. Treatment will vary depending on whether the issue is due to high bite, decay, infection, or other factors.

2. Adjust the Crown: If the crown is too high or causing an uneven bite, your dentist can adjust its height to reduce pressure and discomfort.

3. Treat Decay or Infection: If decay or infection is present under the crown, your dentist will need to address it. This may involve removing the crown, treating the underlying tooth, and then replacing the crown.

4. Use Desensitizing Products: Toothpaste for sensitive teeth can help reduce sensitivity if the pain is due to exposed dentin or minor gum recession.

5. Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent further issues. Brush and floss regularly and use mouthwash to reduce bacteria and inflammation.

6. Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage pain until you can see your dentist. Rinsing with warm salt water can also reduce inflammation and discomfort.

Is It Normal for a Crown to Feel Uncomfortable?

Understanding Crown Comfort

While it is normal to experience some discomfort immediately after getting a new crown as your mouth adjusts, persistent discomfort is not typical and should be evaluated by a dentist. Possible reasons for ongoing discomfort include:

1. High Bite: A crown that is too high can cause discomfort when biting or chewing. This can be easily adjusted by your dentist.

2. Poor Fit: If the crown does not fit properly, it can cause irritation and discomfort. A poorly fitting crown may need to be remade.

3. Gum Irritation: Gums can be irritated by the placement of a crown, but this should resolve within a few days. Persistent gum irritation may indicate an issue with the crown’s fit or placement.

4. Sensitivity: Some sensitivity is normal initially but should subside. Prolonged sensitivity could indicate exposed dentin or other issues.

5. Allergic Reaction: In rare cases, an allergic reaction to the materials used in the crown can cause discomfort.

Can Pain Under a Crown Go Away?

Addressing Pain Under a Crown

Pain under a crown can sometimes resolve on its own, especially if it is due to temporary irritation from the placement procedure. However, persistent pain usually requires intervention:

1. Initial Pain: Some discomfort is normal immediately after a crown is placed and should subside within a few days to weeks as your mouth adjusts.

2. Persistent Pain: If pain continues, it likely indicates an underlying issue that needs to be addressed by a dentist.

3. Treatment for Underlying Issues: Treatment might include adjusting the crown, treating decay or infection, or addressing gum disease. Once the underlying issue is resolved, the pain should subside.

4. Good Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene can help prevent issues that cause pain under a crown. Regular dental check-ups are also important for early detection and treatment of problems.

Conclusion

Dental crowns are designed to restore the function and aesthetics of damaged teeth, but they can sometimes cause discomfort or pain. Understanding the causes of crown-related pain, from high bites and nerve issues to decay and infection, is crucial for effective management and treatment. Regular dental visits, good oral hygiene, and timely intervention can help ensure that your crowns remain comfortable and functional, preserving your oral health and quality of life.

What Are the Symptoms of a Bad Crown?

Identifying Issues with a Dental Crown

A dental crown is intended to restore a damaged tooth, but sometimes issues can arise. Here are the common symptoms of a problematic crown:

1. Persistent Pain or Discomfort: Continuous pain or discomfort when biting down or chewing can indicate issues such as an ill-fitting crown, high bite, or underlying decay.

2. Sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages may signal that the crown is not adequately sealing the tooth, exposing sensitive areas.

3. Visible Damage: Cracks, chips, or other visible damage to the crown suggest it needs repair or replacement.

4. Loose Crown: If the crown feels loose or shifts when you bite or chew, it may need to be re-cemented or replaced.

5. Swelling or Infection: Swelling, redness, or pus around the gum line near the crown can indicate an infection or abscess.

6. Gum Irritation: Persistent gum irritation or recession around the crown can be a sign that the crown does not fit properly.

7. Bad Taste or Odor: A persistent bad taste or odor in your mouth can be a sign of decay or infection under the crown.

How Do You Fix a Sensitive Crown?

Addressing Sensitivity with Dental Crowns

Sensitivity in a crowned tooth can be uncomfortable. Here are steps to fix a sensitive crown:

1. Adjustment of the Crown: If the crown is too high or not fitting correctly, your dentist can adjust it to ensure a proper fit and alleviate pressure points causing sensitivity.

2. Desensitizing Toothpaste: Using toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth can help reduce sensitivity. Apply it regularly and avoid rinsing immediately after brushing to maximize its effectiveness.

3. Fluoride Treatment: Fluoride treatments, either in-office or at-home applications, can help strengthen tooth enamel and reduce sensitivity.

4. Proper Sealing: If the sensitivity is due to an improperly sealed crown, your dentist may need to re-cement the crown to ensure a proper seal and protect the underlying tooth.

5. Treat Underlying Issues: Address any underlying issues such as decay or gum disease that might be contributing to the sensitivity. This could involve additional dental procedures or treatments.

6. Avoid Trigger Foods: Avoiding extremely hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks can help manage sensitivity until a permanent solution is found.

How Long Will a Permanent Crown Be Sore?

Normal Soreness Duration

Some soreness is normal after a permanent crown is placed. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Initial Soreness: Soreness immediately after the crown placement is common and should subside within a few days to a week as your mouth adjusts.

2. Sensitivity: Mild sensitivity to temperature and pressure can persist for a few weeks. This is typically temporary and should gradually improve.

3. Persistent Soreness: If soreness lasts longer than a few weeks or is severe, it may indicate an issue with the fit of the crown, an underlying problem with the tooth, or gum irritation.

Managing Soreness

1. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Use over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to manage discomfort.

2. Gentle Oral Care: Brush and floss gently around the crown to avoid further irritation.

3. Soft Foods: Stick to a diet of soft foods to reduce pressure on the crown during the initial healing period.

4. Dental Consultation: If soreness persists beyond a few weeks, consult your dentist for an evaluation to rule out complications.

What Is Worse, a Crown or Root Canal?

Comparing Crowns and Root Canals

Both crowns and root canals are common dental procedures, but they address different issues and involve different processes:

1. Root Canal:

  • Purpose: A root canal is performed to remove infected or damaged pulp from inside the tooth, eliminating infection and pain.
  • Procedure: It involves cleaning and disinfecting the root canals, followed by sealing them to prevent further infection.
  • Pain: The procedure itself is typically painless due to anesthesia, but there may be soreness for a few days afterward. The goal is to alleviate the severe pain caused by infection.
  • Recovery: Recovery is relatively quick, and the pain relief is usually significant compared to the pre-treatment pain.

2. Crown:

  • Purpose: A crown is used to cover and protect a damaged or decayed tooth, restoring its shape, size, and function.
  • Procedure: The tooth is shaped, and a custom crown is fitted over it. The process typically requires two visits.
  • Pain: The procedure is generally not painful, though there may be some discomfort or sensitivity afterward. The primary goal is to protect and strengthen the tooth.
  • Recovery: Minimal recovery time, with any soreness usually resolving within a few days to a week.

Determining the “Worse” Procedure

1. Severity of Pain: A root canal often addresses severe pain caused by infection, so while the procedure might sound daunting, it provides significant relief. Crowns are generally less painful but are not typically used for pain relief.

2. Complexity: Root canals are more complex and invasive than crowns, as they involve cleaning out the tooth’s interior.

3. Duration and Cost: Root canals might take longer and be more expensive due to their complexity compared to placing a crown.

How Do I Know If My Crown Is Infected?

Signs of an Infected Crown

An infection under a crown can cause various symptoms. Look for these signs:

1. Persistent Pain: Continuous or throbbing pain around the crowned tooth is a common sign of infection.

2. Swelling and Redness: Swelling or redness of the gums around the crown can indicate infection.

3. Pus or Abscess: The presence of pus or a visible abscess near the crowned tooth is a clear sign of infection.

4. Sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods that does not improve over time can be a symptom of infection.

5. Bad Taste or Odor: A persistent bad taste or foul odor in your mouth can indicate infection.

6. Fever: In severe cases, an infected tooth can cause a fever and general malaise.

What to Do

1. See Your Dentist: If you suspect an infection, consult your dentist immediately. Prompt treatment is crucial to prevent the spread of infection.

2. Antibiotics: Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to help fight the infection.

3. Possible Root Canal: In some cases, a root canal may be necessary to remove the infected tissue and save the tooth.

How to Tell If a Tooth Crown Is Not Fitted Properly?

Signs of a Poorly Fitted Crown

A properly fitted crown is essential for function and comfort. Here are signs that your crown may not be fitted correctly:

1. Pain or Discomfort: Persistent pain or discomfort when biting down or chewing can indicate a high bite or improper fit.

2. Sensitivity: Unusual sensitivity to temperature or pressure can be a sign that the crown is not sealing the tooth properly.

3. Loose Crown: A crown that feels loose or moves when you bite or chew is not fitted properly and needs adjustment.

4. Gum Irritation: Irritation, swelling, or recession of the gums around the crown can indicate issues with the fit or placement.

5. Visible Gaps: Visible gaps between the crown and the gum line or adjacent teeth can trap food and bacteria, leading to decay and infection.

6. Speech Impediments: Difficulty speaking or changes in speech patterns can occur if the crown is too large or does not align correctly with your other teeth.

Addressing an Improper Fit

1. Dental Visit: Schedule a visit with your dentist to evaluate the crown’s fit and make necessary adjustments.

2. Adjustment: Minor adjustments to the crown’s height or shape can often resolve discomfort and improve the fit.

3. Replacement: In some cases, the crown may need to be remade to ensure a proper fit.

4. Good Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene can help prevent issues associated with a poorly fitted crown, such as gum disease and decay.

Conclusion

Dental crowns are designed to restore and protect damaged teeth, but they can sometimes cause discomfort or issues. Understanding the symptoms of a bad crown, how to address sensitivity, and recognizing signs of infection or improper fit are essential for maintaining oral health. Regular dental check-ups, good oral hygiene, and timely intervention can help ensure your crowns remain comfortable and functional, providing long-term benefits to your dental health.

Dr. Haroon

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Published by
Dr. Haroon
1 month ago

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