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Discovering that a dental crown doesn't guarantee freedom from tooth pain can be surprising for many. While a dental crown effectively shields a fractured tooth, it doesn't make the tooth immune to various issues. Discomfort, sensitivity, or even chronic toothaches can still arise in the vicinity of the crown. Let's delve into the reasons behind dental crown tooth pain and how to address it.

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown, essentially a cap, serves the purpose of covering a damaged tooth. It is securely bonded in place, encapsulating the visible portion of the tooth. These crowns play a vital role in protecting and restoring the tooth's size and shape. They are often used on either side of a missing tooth to support a bridge – a dental prosthetic that fills a gap in your mouth. These crowns can be crafted from various materials like porcelain, ceramic, or metal, depending on the specific dental needs. Choosing high-quality materials for your crown is crucial. Some individuals may be sensitive or allergic to certain materials, leading to discomfort or pain. Discuss material options with your dentist.

Your dentist might recommend a dental crown for:

• A cracked or weakened tooth
• Discolored or misshapen tooth
• A severe cavity that cannot be addressed with a filling
• A missing tooth requiring a bridge or implant

Common Causes of Dental Crown Tooth Pain

1. Tooth decay under the crown

Despite the protective cover, the tooth under the crown is still susceptible to decay. The junction between the tooth and crown can harbor tooth decay, leading to chronic pain.

2. Infection

If a root canal wasn’t performed before crown placement, the tooth retains its nerves. The crown pressing against an injured nerve can lead to infection. Old fillings under the crown may also leak bacteria, causing nerve infections.

3. Sore gums from crown procedure

Discomfort following a crown placement is normal, but it should be temporary. If the discomfort persists beyond two weeks, consulting your dentist is essential.

4. Fractured tooth or crown

A cracked crown or a fractured tooth beneath it can cause mild pain, particularly when exposed to cold, heat, or air. Prompt repair is necessary for a cracked or loose dental crown.

5. Teeth grinding

Nighttime teeth grinding, or bruxism can strain the crown, resulting in pain. Using a mouthguard can help alleviate this issue.

6. Recessed gums

Gum recession around the crowned tooth can expose roots, leading to discomfort and sensitivity. Brushing too vigorously can contribute to gum recession, making the area more prone to plaque buildup and gum dise ase.

7. Incorrect crown fit

A poorly fitting crown can cause discomfort and affect your bite or grin. Discomfort while biting down may indicate a crown that is too high on the tooth.

8. Nerve issues

If the crowned tooth still experiences nerve-related problems, such as inflammation or damage, it can result in persistent pain. Further dental evaluation may be necessary.

9. Adjacent tooth problems

Issues with teeth adjacent to the crowned tooth, such as decay or infection, can radiate pain to the crowned tooth. A comprehensive dental examination is essential to identify and address these concerns.

10. Allergic reactions

Some individuals may develop allergic reactions to the materials used in dental crowns. Allergies can manifest as pain, swelling, or discomfort in the surrounding tissues. If you suspect an allergic reaction, it's vital to communicate this to your dentist for appropriate material alternatives.

The bottom line

If you're experiencing severe or persistent tooth pain around a crowned tooth, seeking professional dental guidance is crucial. Depending on the issue, solutions may involve a root canal, crown replacement, or even tooth extraction. Don't ignore persistent discomfort, as timely intervention can prevent further complications and ensure optimal oral health. Your dentist is your ally in addressing dental crown-related concerns and maintaining a pain-free smile.

Tooth pain can be common, often attributed to sensitivity or minor dental issues. However, certain signs accompany toothaches that may indicate more serious underlying problems requiring prompt attention. Ignoring persistent pain can lead to complications, so it's crucial to recognize these signs. Let's delve into the indicators that your toothache might be more than a passing discomfort.

1. Intense throbbing pain

A throbbing ache in your tooth, unrelated to eating, could signal a tooth infection. When bacteria invade the tooth's pulp, which houses nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue, it can lead to a severe, throbbing pain. Untreated infections pose risks of spreading to other parts of the body.

2. Sore or clicking jaw

Consistent jaw pain or clicking when you open your mouth might be a sign of temporomandibular joint disease (TMJ). This condition can result from teeth grinding, clenching, arthritis, or hereditary factors. Seeking professional advice can help address TMJ issues, and in severe cases, masseter reduction surgery may be recommended.

Plus, if you have a severe TMJ, you may also need a masseter reduction - a treatment used to reduce jaw muscles that often get bigger if you have severe TMJ disorder.

3. Mouth dryness

A dry mouth can exacerbate dental problems as saliva helps protect against bacteria. Some medications induce dry mouth, creating an environment conducive to bacterial growth. Difficulty in speaking, swallowing, or spitting may accompany dry mouth.

4. Loose tooth

Tooth discomfort coupled with a loose sensation may indicate advanced gum disease or periodontal disease. Swift action is crucial to address this condition. A loose tooth can also result from untreated cavities or dental decay.

5. Dull and constant pain

Frequent, persistent toothaches may indicate an underlying issue, possibly foreign substances trapped in the gums. Thorough flossing can alleviate discomfort if the pain is localized to one area and is accompanied by swollen or irritated gums.

6. Swollen jaw or neck

While some swelling is normal after dental surgery, unexplained swelling in the jaw or neck alongside tooth pain may indicate a dental abscess. This infection can lead to the accumulation of pus and bacteria, posing risks of spreading to adjacent areas.

7. Pressure sensation

Tooth discomfort accompanied by a pressure sensation could suggest problems with wisdom teeth. As these molars grow between ages 16 and 23, complications may arise, especially if they grow at an angle, potentially causing infections or decay.

8. Chipped tooth

Any tooth can chip, but lower second molars are commonly affected due to the pressure they endure during chewing. Ignoring a chipped tooth may result in increased sensitivity and chronic toothaches, as the exposed roots and nerves make the mouth highly sensitive.

9. Visible decay or dark spots

If you notice visible signs of decay or dark spots on your teeth, it could indicate advanced dental issues. Decay may progress to the point where it affects the nerves, leading to persistent pain. Addressing decay promptly through dental intervention can prevent further complications.

10. Pain aggravated by chewing or biting

Toothaches that intensify when chewing or biting down may suggest issues with the tooth's structure, such as cracks or fractures. These structural problems can expose sensitive nerves, causing heightened pain. Seeking dental evaluation can help diagnose and address the underlying structural issues.

11. Pain radiating to the ear or head

If your toothache is accompanied by pain radiating to the ear or head, it could indicate a more complex problem, such as an infected tooth affecting surrounding areas. This type of referred pain may necessitate comprehensive dental treatment to address the root cause.

12. Unpleasant taste or odor

If you experience a persistent unpleasant taste or odor in your mouth along with tooth pain, it might indicate an infection. Oral infections can release bacteria and toxins, leading to a foul taste or odor. Addressing the infection promptly through dental care can help alleviate both the discomfort and the unpleasant taste or smell.

A sensitivity to hot or cold, which might grow more common as you get older, could be the cause of occasional mouth pain. However, different sorts of toothaches—and the symptoms that go along with them—can be signs that you're developing one of a number of significant health problems that require quick attention.

Don't just take an ibuprofen and hope for the best. Continue reading to discover indicators that your toothache should be taken seriously.

1. You experience an intense throbbing pain 

An acute, throbbing ache in your tooth that isn't caused by eating could be a sign that you have a tooth infection. A tooth infection arises when bacteria infect the pulp of the tooth, which is the innermost part of the tooth that contains connective tissue, nerves, and blood vessels. Infections are dangerous because, if left untreated, they can spread to other parts of your body.

2. Your jaw is sore or clicking 

If your jaw is constantly hurting or clicking when you open your mouth, it could be a sign that you're developing temporomandibular joint disease or TMJ. This condition can happen if you clench or grind your teeth often. It could also be caused by arthritis or simply by heredity.

If your jaw is sore, clicking, or causing you pain, make an appointment with a professional. They can help you develop techniques to combat or relieve TMJ problems. They may also take an x-ray to determine the degree of your TMJ, and if severe, surgery may be advised. Plus, if you have a severe TMJ, you may also need a masseter reduction - a treatment used to reduce jaw muscles that often get bigger if you have severe TMJ disorder. 

3. You have mouth dryness 

Saliva protects you from bacteria and having a dry mouth can exacerbate whatever dental problems you're having because it encourages bacteria to develop in an ideal habitat. Certain drugs might induce dry mouth, which makes it difficult to spit, talk, or speak.

4. Your tooth is loose 

It's an indication of advanced gum disease, also known as periodontal disease if you have tooth discomfort and the tooth itself feels loose. It's critical to take care of it straight away. A loose tooth might also happen if you haven't had a cavity or dental decay repaired.

5. The pain is dull and constant 

A frequent and severe toothache is not only uncomfortable, but it could also indicate the presence of something more dangerous. It's possible that you have a foreign substance caught in your gums if your discomfort is centered in one location and accompanied with swollen or irritated gums. Flossing thoroughly may help you feel better.

6. You have swollen jaw or neck

 Your jaw may enlarge a little as you heal if you have had dental surgery. However, if you haven't had any treatment done recently and are experiencing swelling in your jaw or neck in addition to tooth pain, you may have a dental abscess. Your tooth has become infected, resulting in an accumulation of pus and germs in your jaw or neck. The infection can spread to your other teeth, adjacent bones, and, in the worst-case scenario, your ears or brain.

7. You feel pressure 

If you have dental discomfort that is accompanied by pressure, it's possible that your wisdom teeth are causing you problems. In the United States, 10 million wisdom teeth are pulled each year. When you're between the ages of 16 and 23, your wisdom teeth do the majority of their growth and change.

If they appeared to be growing normally throughout the years, your dentist may have decided to leave them in. They may, however, begin to crowd your other teeth as you become older. If your wisdom teeth come in at an angle, they're more likely to get infected or decay, which can lead to additional issues in your mouth if they're not extracted.

8. You notice a chip 

Any tooth can be chipped, however, the lower second molar is the most commonly chipped tooth, according to a study published in the Journal of Endodontics. This could be due to the fact that when you chew or bite down, it takes the most pressure. If you ignore the chip in your tooth, you may experience severe sensitivity to hot and cold foods, as well as a toothache, for the rest of your life. A chipped tooth means your roots and nerves are exposed to the air, making your mouth very sensitive to whatever it comes into touch with.