Tooth Pain Under Crown That Comes and Goes

A dental crown is designed to protect and strengthen a damaged tooth, but some people experience tooth pain under a crown that comes and goes. This intermittent discomfort can range from mild sensitivity to sharp pain, making daily activities like eating or drinking uncomfortable. Thus, understanding the causes of crown tooth pain and how to address it is crucial to maintaining oral health.

Tooth Pain Under Crown Causes

There are several reasons why you might experience pain under a crown:

• Tooth decay or infection under the crown: If bacteria get trapped beneath the crown, it can lead to decay or infection under the dental crown, causing persistent pain.
• Nerve pain under tooth crown: If a crown is placed on a tooth with an exposed or irritated nerve, it can cause pulpitis under the crown, leading to sensitivity and discomfort.
• Tooth abscess under crown: A severe infection can cause an abscess, resulting in throbbing pain that worsens over time.
• Crown fit issues: A poorly fitted crown may pressure surrounding teeth or the underlying tooth, causing crown pain when chewing.
• Root canal needed after crown: If a tooth isn’t treated adequately before placing a crown, nerve damage may require a root canal.
• Loosening crown causing pain: Over time, dental cement can weaken, causing the crown to shift and expose the tooth to bacteria and sensitivity.

Symptoms of Crown-Related Tooth Pain

If you experience tooth pain under a crown at night or sensitivity under a dental crown, pay attention to the following symptoms:

• Sharp pain when biting or chewing
• Lingering toothache under the crown
• Temperature sensitivity (hot or cold foods/drinks)
• Swelling or redness around the gum line
• A bad taste in the mouth (which may indicate infection)

Toothache Under Crown Treatment

Depending on the cause, treatment options may include:

• Dental cleaning and crown adjustment: If your crown causes an improper bite, your dentist may adjust or replace it.
• Antibiotics for infection under dental crown: Antibiotics may be prescribed before further treatment if an infection is present.
• Root canal for pulpitis under crown: If nerve damage is the issue, a root canal may be necessary to remove infected tissue.
• Replacing an old or loose crown: If you have tooth pain under an old crown, your dentist may recommend replacing it.

How to Relieve Crown Tooth Pain at Home

If you are experiencing discomfort before seeing a dentist, here’s what to do for crown tooth pain:

• Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen.
• Avoid extremely hot, cold, or sugary foods.
• Use a desensitizing toothpaste for sensitivity under a dental crown.
• Rinse with warm salt water to reduce inflammation.
• Avoid chewing on the affected side to minimize crown tooth pain when biting.

When to See a Dentist

If you have persistent or worsening pain under a crown after years of wear, schedule an appointment with your dentist. Early intervention can prevent complications such as severe infections or tooth loss.

Final Thoughts

Tooth pain under a crown is not normal and should not be ignored. Whether it is an infection, a nerve issue, or a poorly fitted crown, addressing the problem early can save your tooth and prevent more serious issues. If you are experiencing discomfort, consult your dentist for the best treatment options.