A hurting crown can be quite distressing, leaving you with discomfort and uncertainty. The good news is that most crown pain is treatable. However, understanding the potential causes is crucial for effective management and seeking the right professional help. This comprehensive guide explores the various reasons why your crown might be hurting and what you can do about it.
What Causes Crown Pain?
Crown pain isn't always a sign of a serious problem, but it's never something to ignore. Several factors can contribute to discomfort:
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Irritation: Sometimes, the crown itself can irritate the gum tissue surrounding it. This can be due to a poorly fitting crown, an ill-fitting temporary crown, or even simply the crown's edges slightly irritating the gum. This usually manifests as a mild ache or sensitivity.
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Infection: An infection under the crown (peri-apical abscess) is a more serious concern. Bacteria can penetrate the area between the crown and the tooth, leading to inflammation, swelling, and intense pain. This often comes with other symptoms like swelling of the gums, tenderness to the touch, and possibly even a fever.
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Fractured Tooth: A fractured tooth underlying the crown can be a source of significant pain. The crown might mask the fracture, but the underlying damage will still cause discomfort. This often presents as a sharp, shooting pain, especially when biting down.
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Damaged Crown: The crown itself can become damaged. A chip or crack in the crown can expose the underlying tooth to further irritation or even infection.
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Pulpitis (Inflammation of the tooth pulp): While less common if the crown was placed correctly, inflammation of the tooth's inner pulp can occur. This is generally characterized by a throbbing pain, especially when exposed to hot or cold temperatures.
What to Do If Your Crown Hurts
The first step is to contact your dentist. They can properly diagnose the cause of your pain and recommend the appropriate treatment. Avoid home remedies as they may delay proper treatment or even worsen the situation.
How Can I Prevent Crown Pain?
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to help prevent crown pain:
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene: Brush and floss regularly and thoroughly.
- Avoid biting hard objects: This can damage the crown or the underlying tooth.
- Regular dental check-ups: Regular visits to your dentist allow for early detection and treatment of any problems.
- Choose a reputable dentist: Selecting a skilled and experienced dentist is crucial for a well-fitting and long-lasting crown.
Is Crown Pain an Emergency?
While not always an emergency, severe pain, swelling, or fever should be considered a dental emergency. Contact your dentist immediately or seek emergency dental care. Delayed treatment can lead to more severe complications.
How Long Does Crown Pain Last?
The duration of crown pain depends entirely on the cause. Mild irritation might resolve quickly with a simple adjustment by your dentist. More serious issues like infection or a fractured tooth require more extensive treatment and could last longer.
Can a Crown Fall Off?
Yes, a crown can fall off, often due to decay under the crown, trauma, or a poorly cemented crown. If your crown falls off, store it in milk or saline solution and contact your dentist immediately.
My Crown is Loose – What Should I Do?
A loose crown is a serious issue and should be addressed by your dentist as soon as possible. Don't attempt to fix it yourself; contact your dentist immediately.
Remember, your dentist is the best resource for diagnosing and treating crown pain. Don't hesitate to seek professional help if you are experiencing discomfort. Early intervention can often prevent more significant problems and discomfort down the line.
