Experiencing dental problems, like broken or damaged teeth, can be distressing. The good news is that with new advancements, dental crowns can rescue you from pain. However, it is not uncommon to experience tooth sensitivity to cold after getting a dental crown. In this situation, the crown placement is not the reason behind this issue. Let’s delve into the details regarding the causes and treatment for clarity.
Tooth Sensitivity After Dental Crown Treatment – Causes
Here’s why your teeth might be feeling sharp zaps.
- Temporary Tissue Inflammation
A sensitive tooth after a crown placement is usually a temporary issue, and the main culprit is tissue inflammation within the tooth’s pulp. They can become irritated during the treatment, hence the discomfort. Fortunately, this kind of sensitivity adjusts or mellows down on its own as the healing continues. Another method of relief is to take anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen. - Incorrect Fit
Some parts of the tooth are removed for a proper fit during the placement process. There are times when, with even meticulous efforts, the crown may not sit perfectly; if it is slightly too high or misaligned, irritation while chewing and biting is inevitable, resulting in tooth sensitivity. - Nerve Damage
In case you have an already sensitive tooth that worsens after crown treatment, take it as an indicator of nerve damage.
Tips for Dealing With Tooth Sensitivity After a Crown
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene:
It is crucial to maintain good dental hygiene, especially after getting a crown. There’s no added step to make post-op care difficult. Simply brush your teeth twice a day and floss once. With that, steer clear of sugary foods and drinks for optimal oral care. - Avoid Aggressive Brushing:
Go for a toothbrush with soft bristles for less pressure on your teeth. Brush gently in a circular motion. If traditional flossing causes discomfort, you can get a water flosser instead and use it on a gentle level. - Use Sensitive Toothpaste:
Your dentist may also recommend OTC (over-the-counter) toothpaste specifically designed for sensitive teeth. These toothpaste options have active ingredients like strontium chloride, stannous fluoride, calcium sodium, or arginine. - Eat Carefully:
Watch what you eat. Avoid crunchy edibles like raw carrots, hard crackers, hard candies, etc., until your sensitivity subsides. If chewing is uncomfortable, opt for soft foods. - Consider Painkillers:
Over-the-counter painkillers like Tylenol (acetaminophen) or NSAIDS- nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like Advil (ibuprofen) are good options for temporary pain relief.
Closing Note
Tooth sensitivity after dental crown treatment is a common concern, but it is usually manageable. Understanding the potential causes can help a great deal to minimize discomfort and ensure a smoother recovery process. If you want to learn more, get in touch with dental care experts from AT Dental Care at (408) 579-9931. We are located at 1906 Aborn Rd, San Jose, CA 95121, United States.