TL;DR

• A dental crown is a protective cap for damaged or weakened teeth.
• Common causes of dental crown pain are:
  • Post-crown sensitivity
  • Tooth decay beneath the crown
  • Gum disease and recession
  • Loose or damaged crown
  • Occlusal trauma
  • Fractured tooth beneath the crown
  • Referred pain from other sources
• Treatment ranges from adjusting the crown to root canal therapy.
• Prevention includes good oral hygiene and regular checkups.
• If pain continues or becomes more severe after a few days, schedule a dental checkup.

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is basically a protective cap that fits over a tooth that’s damaged or weakened, helping to restore its shape, strength, and function. People often get crowns to fix a cracked tooth, cover a dental implant, or strengthen a tooth after a root canal. While crowns are meant to keep your teeth safe and working well, it’s not unusual to feel some discomfort afterwards. 

Knowing why your tooth might hurt after getting a crown can make it easier to deal with the discomfort and prevent it from developing into something more serious. In this article, we’ll take a look at the seven main reasons for dental crown tooth pain, and simple ways to relieve or prevent it. 

Dental Crown and Pain: 7 Causes and How to Fix Them

According to leading specialists at Norwood Dental, the following are the most common causes of dental crown tooth pain: 

1. Post-Crown Sensitivity

After getting a crown, it’s normal for your tooth to feel a little tender when eating, drinking, or biting. Your tooth needs time to adjust, so mild discomfort in the first few days is usually common. However, if the sensitivity lasts longer or feels intense, it could be a sign of nerve irritation, an improperly fitted crown, or bite issues.

Treatment Options:

•  Switch to toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth.
•  Temporarily avoid eating or drinking anything too hot or too cold.
•  If the discomfort doesn’t improve, visit your dentist for a crown adjustment or checkup.

2. Tooth Decay Beneath the Crown

Even though a crown covers and protects a tooth, decay can still develop underneath it if bacteria enter between the tooth and the crown. This can cause tooth pain and, in some cases, lead to dental pain after a root canal and crown. If left untreated, the decay can progress, potentially affecting the nerve and surrounding tissues. 

Treatment Options: 

• Removing the crown to treat the decay.
• A root canal may be needed to treat the nerve if it becomes inflamed or damaged.
• After treatment, the crown is replaced to restore the tooth’s structure and function.
  

3. Gum Disease and Recession 

Gum disease can affect the tissues around a crown, causing the gums to recede and exposing sensitive areas of the tooth. This exposure can lead to dental crown tooth pain and make the underlying tooth more susceptible to decay or infection.

Treatment Options: 

• Professional dental cleaning can remove plaque and tartar buildup, helping protect both your gums and crown tooth.
• Gently brushing two times a day and flossing regularly helps prevent irritation and lowers the chance of pain.
• If gum disease is advanced, your dentist may recommend scaling and root planing, or other specialized treatments, to restore gum health and minimize pain.

4. Loose or Damaged Crown

If a crown becomes loose or gets damaged, it can leave the underlying tooth exposed, leading to sharp or throbbing pain. This can happen due to normal wear, biting on hard foods, or issues with the crown’s cement.

Treatment Options:

• Your dentist can fix a loose crown by putting it back in place.
• If the crown is broken or compromised, a new one may be required.
• Avoid hard foods and use over-the-counter pain relievers as needed.

5. Occlusal Trauma (Bite Issues)

Sometimes, a crown may not sit perfectly in line with your bite. This can create extra pressure on the tooth, leading to discomfort and, in some cases, jaw and ear pain after dental crown placement.

Treatment Options:

• Your dentist can reshape or reposition the crown to ensure it fits comfortably with your bite.
• If you grind or clench your teeth at night, a custom night guard can reduce pressure and prevent further pain.
• Over-the-counter pain relievers or warm compresses can help temporarily ease discomfort while waiting for adjustments.
  

6. Fractured Tooth Beneath the Crown

Sometimes the tooth beneath a crown can split or crack, even if it isn’t immediately visible. It can cause significant pain or sensitivity. 

Treatment Options: 

• Using X-rays or other scans, your dentist can locate the fracture and decide on the best treatment.
• If the fracture affects the tooth’s nerve, a root canal may be needed to relieve pain and save the tooth. 
• In severe cases where the tooth cannot be saved, extraction followed by a new crown or dental implant may be necessary. 

7. Referred Pain from Other Sources

Sometimes, pain that seems to come from a dental crown may actually originate elsewhere. Issues such as sinus infections or nerve-related conditions, like trigeminal neuralgia, can create discomfort that feels like it’s coming from your tooth.

Treatment Options:

• Your dentist may perform a thorough examination and recommend imaging or other tests to determine the true source of the pain.
• Once identified, addressing the root problem, whether it’s a sinus issue, nerve condition, or another dental concern, can relieve the referred pain.
• In the meantime, your dentist may suggest temporary pain relief strategies to keep you comfortable.

Conclusion

Dealing with dental crown tooth pain can be frustrating, but knowing the cause can help you find the right solution sooner. Whether it is sensitivity, decay, or gum issues, treatments are available to restore comfort.

At Norwood Dental Care, we provide dental crowns that combine strength, comfort, and a perfect fit for your teeth. If you’re experiencing any discomfort, schedule a visit with us today to access expert guidance and care. 

Restore Your Comfort Today!

Don’t let dental crown pain hold you back. Call us at (952) 467-3518 or visit our clinic at 222 E Wilson Street, Norwood, MN 55368. You can also email us at appointments@norwood-dental.com to book your appointment.

FAQs

1. What could make a crowned tooth painful during biting?

Pain while biting may be due to bite misalignment, decay under the crown, or a loose crown. 

2. Can a crown that doesn’t fit properly cause tooth pain or sensitivity?

Yes, poorly fitted crowns can lead to discomfort, sensitivity, and even gum irritation. 

3. Will my tooth hurt for a while once the crown is fitted?

Mild sensitivity is normal for a short period. If your discomfort doesn’t ease after two weeks or becomes severe, contact your dentist promptly.

4. How can the tooth beneath a crown become decayed?

Decay can form at the crown margin if plaque accumulates, especially if oral hygiene is inconsistent. 

5. Can dental crowns cause joint and muscle pain? 

Yes, bite issues may sometimes lead to jaw muscle strain or referred pain.