Dentists aim to fit your new dental crown so it will function and look just like a normal tooth, while also preserving as much healthy structure under and around the crown as possible. A comfortable fit ensures a durable, long-lasting dental restoration or cosmetic treatment. Crowns can be used to restore a beautiful smile, anchor a dental bridge, or they can help a person find relief from pain if a tooth is infected or decayed.
There are a number of reasons people may experience some discomfort immediately after getting a dental crown or sometimes years after the crown is installed. A good hygiene routine and a good dentist, who you meet with regularly, will mitigate most issues, but here are some common reasons you might experience discomfort after getting a crown:
Changes in Bite
Every so often, a dental crown will alter a person's bite. This can occur for a number of reasons, but it's easily fixed by adjusting the fitting or fine tuning the shape of the crown to match your bite. If something doesn't quite feel right when you chew after getting a crown, get in touch with your dentist to take a look.
Irritated Gums
Dentists often fit crowns below a person's gum line, which may cause some minor irritation immediately after the procedure. This should only last a few days.
Temperature Sensitivity
Temperature sensitivity is a common occurrence after many dental procedures. The tooth under the crown, however, can sometimes become sensitive long after the crown has been placed. This is often caused by the gums receding, which occurs naturally as your age, and it can be accelerated from plaque or gum disease. Keep your crown and the area around it clean by brushing twice a day and flossing to reduce this risk!
Tooth Decay
Although crowns cover and protect your healthy tooth structure, they can still form cavities where the tooth and crown meet. Again, a healthy dental hygiene routine will reduce this risk significantly.
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Crowns need to be looked after and regularly checked, just like any other tooth in your mouth. To ensure a good fit, and to be proactive about any issues that may arise, make sure you see your dentist at least twice a year. Keep them clean like a regular tooth, be careful with hard or sticky foods, and they should last you a long time.