Are you experiencing temporary crown pain? You’re not alone; it can be quite common to experience discomfort or pain while you’re waiting on a permanent crown. However, if the pain is severe, it can be a sign that something is wrong.
In this article, we’ll talk about how temporary crowns work and some of the reasons they can hurt. Next, we’ll let you know what you can do if your temporary crown hurts.
Why Do I Have Temporary Crown Pain?
Since permanent crowns are custom-fabricated to fit perfectly over the tooth and mimic its form and function, it takes a week or two to arrive – your dentist installs a temporary crown to allow your teeth and mouth to function normally while you wait. A temporary crown covers the sensitive layers of a tooth to protect it from damage in the meantime.
However, temporary crowns are not as durable or strong as permanent ones, and your dentist uses non-permanent adhesive for gluing the temporary crown. This means it’s easier to move or dislodge, which may expose the damaged tooth and cause pain or sensitivity. Although this is normal to some extent, if you’re experiencing severe sensitivity or intense pain, it means
something’s not right.
It’s normal for a temporary crown not to fit your tooth perfectly, but if the fitment is not good enough or the crown sits too high, it can cause issues with your bite, leading to pressure and pain in the area. Another reason for temporary crown pain is an infection, which can occur after installation. An infected tooth almost always hurts and can happen if there’s a significant gap between the crown and the gums that allow bacteria and food debris to enter the tooth.
Also, note that if you grind your teeth at night, you could be exerting pressure on the crown that it can not handle, which could lead to a sore jaw, gums, or teeth in the morning.
What To Do To Treat Your Temporary Crown Pain
You can use some strategies to minimize your temporary crown pain until you can see a dentist for your permanent crown.
- Use an ice pack. An ice pack can help reduce inflammation and swelling in the area. Wrap it in a towel and apply to the affected area for 15 minutes. Repeat as needed.
- Take over-the-counter medication. Pain-relieving medication such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help.
- Use numbing ointments. Available at your local pharmacy, benzocaine ointments can help reduce pain by acting as an anesthetic in the affected area.
- Try saltwater. This home remedy can help relieve pain and reduce swelling. It may also help wash away bacteria and food debris that is provoking pain in the area. Use a cup of warm water and a teaspoon of salt, rinse your mouth with it for two minutes, and spit. Repeat as needed.
Conclusion: What If The Temporary Crown Pain Won’t Go Away?
If you continue to have pain despite trying the steps above, contacting your dentist is a good idea. The appointment for your permanent crown won’t be too far out if you have a temporary one. Besides, a dentist will be able to give you the best treatment advice, including prescribing painkillers or adjusting the temporary crown if necessary.
At Vintage Smile Family Dentistry, we put our patients first. We know that visiting the dentist can be nerve-wracking, so we understand that giving you quality care means that your comfort comes first. With one-on-one attention, personalized treatment, and friendly service, we empower you towards excellent oral health. Don’t hesitate to get in touch for all of your Houston dental needs! For any inquiries or to schedule an appointment, call us at (281) 251-7770.