Crowns are artificial placements put on a lost tooth and cemented using high strength dental adhesive. They are used to cover up a partial tooth, damaged troth or to cover a dental implant. A patient shouldn’t feel any discomfort or sensitivity after the crown has been placed, although at times one may feel temporarily sensitivity. This temporary sensitivity occurs due to various reasons;
- If the crown is a bit longer than necessary, the patient can develop something called ‘bite tenderness’ which can turn into sensitivity towards hot or cold foods.
- The material the temporary tooth is made from can affect tooth sensitivity. Plastic material tends to be a good option for protecting against temperature but it isn’t as durable as a material. Metal is more durable but isn’t as good at buffering the tooth against hot and cold
- Some tooth remnants underneath the crown can affect how sensitive a crown is. The extent of decay before the treatment and where the filling is in relation to the tooth nerve can also influence the sensitivity. Naturally, the tooth will be more sensitive the closer the filling is to the nerve.
These are just some of the main reasons crowns can be sensitive after placement; although the sensitivity is expected, this will reduce within a few days. Hot and cold temperatures should be less of an issue over time as well and should gradually improve.
Summary;
The duration of crown sensitivity can vary from one individual to another – It is advisable to visit the dentist as soon as one experiences the sensitivity for a long period.
Conclusion;
Some sensitivity is normal after a crown as the tooth settles down; however, increasing sensitivity or pain after a week or more warrants a follow up a visit to your orthodontist.