By EKalman July 22, 2022 - 12:26am

While dental crowns are extremely effective at repairing damaged teeth, tooth sensitivity is not uncommon after their placement. In these cases, the crowned tooth is extremely sensitive to heat and cold, and biting can be painful. Tooth sensitivity following a crown usually goes away on its own after a few days. However, it can occasionally be a sign of more serious problems that requireadditional treatment.

The discomfort is caused by the middle layer of the tooth, or dentin, becoming exposed and stimulating nerves within the crowned tooth. This can happen due to tooth decay, infection, or an ill-fitting crown, among other things. However, precautions can be taken to avoid tooth sensitivity after placement, and special toothpastes can help alleviate symptoms.

If you have a crown or are about to get one, knowing the symptoms and causes of tooth sensitivity, as well as what to do about it, is critical.

How Long Does Tooth Sensitivity After a Crown Last?
As your dentist will tell you, there is a chance that the tooth sensitivity will last for a while after the crown is placed. While symptoms can last up to six weeks, in most cases, the pain and discomfort go away within a few days.

Causes of Tooth Sensitivity After a Crown
Tooth sensitivity caused by dental crowns occurs when stimuli such as temperature, pressure, and others reach the nerves that remain in the capped tooth. When the porous dentin layer of the tooth is exposed, the nerves located in the central "pulp" portion of the tooth become exposed. This can be caused by a number of factors, including:

Cement from the crown
The cement used to bond the crown to the remaining structure causes the temperature sensitivity associated with crown placement. This causes irritation, which leads to pain and other symptoms. This sensitivity usually goes away after a few days.

Tooth decay or infection
Another cause of tooth sensitivity is decay or infection of the crowned tooth's pulp. Bacteria can build up beneath the crown if it is improperly applied or the cement that holds it in place comes loose. As a result, tooth decay and pulp infection can occur, which is a common cause of tooth pain and discomfort. Professional treatment and reworking of the crown is critical in these cases.

A poorly-fitted crown
When tooth sensitivity causes pain in response to pressure, such as when biting into food or gritting teeth, the crown is most likely too small. If this cap is too big, it will need to be adjusted and reshaped to fit properly, which is a quick and easy process.

Bite interference
Bite interference, also known as occlusal interference or malocclusion, occurs when the upper and lower jaws (or mandibles) are not properly aligned. When the mouth is closed, the teeth do not align, and tooth sensitivity is common. Crown placement may contribute to this potentially serious condition.

Tips to Minimize Tooth Sensitivity
Despite its prevalence, tooth sensitivity can be effectively managed and avoided. Here's what you can do to keep it to a minimum after a dental crown placement:

Good dental hygiene
It is critical to maintain a healthy dental hygiene regimen in order to prevent tooth decay or infection. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing on a regular basis, and avoiding sugary foods, drinks, and sodas.

Specialized toothpaste
Your dentist may advise you to use toothpaste designed specifically for sensitive teeth. These desensitizing products, which are frequently available without a prescription, have been shown to be effective in reducing discomfort and pain intensity.

Use a soft toothbrush
Softer bristled toothbrushes reduce the impact on the gums, which can help prevent sensitivity.

Careful chewing
Avoid biting hard surfaces, such as hard candies, and be aware of teeth grinding, fingernail chewing, and other bad oral hygiene habits.

Avoid triggers
Making sure you don't consume extremely hot, frozen, or cold foods or drinks will help you avoid sensitivity attacks.

Pain killers
Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications such as Advil or Motrin (both ibuprofen), Tylenol (acetaminophen), and others can also help with the discomfort.