Sensitivity after receiving a dental crown varies from patient to patient. Occasionally, patients may feel some sensitivity to hot or cold liquids and foods for a period of time. You may also feel aching or a bit of tenderness when you bite. Others may experience an abnormal bite or gum tissue sensitivity. So why does this happen and how long can you expect the sensitivity to last? Let’s find out! 

What Causes Crown Sensitivity?

The remaining portion of the tooth that is located under the crown can influence sensitivity. For instance, you need to take into consideration how decayed the tooth was prior to receiving the crown. If the filling is located very close to the nerve, then you’re more likely to experience sensitivity.

When your tooth’s outer enamel is chipped, cracked, or damaged, any bit of heat, cold, or pressure transfers more quickly to the nerves at the center of the tooth resulting in discomfort. When a dentist places a crown on your tooth, they need to remove a small amount of the outer enamel. While the tooth is adjusting to the crown and to the exposure of air, heat, and cold during the procedure, the area is a lot more sensitive.

How Long Will the Sensitivity Last?

As mentioned above, it varies from patient to patient on how long the sensitivity will last. On average, patients experience sensitivity for about a week or two after the crown has been placed. The amount of sensitivity and discomfort is proportional to the amount of decay or enamel that needed to be removed. The closer to the nerve the dentist has to drill, the more discomfort and sensitivity you’ll experience. 

Tips for Minimizing Sensitivity after a Crown Placement

• Tell your dentist what discomfort and sensitivity you are experiencing. Often it can be treated by having your dentist adjust the crown to better balance your bite. Your dentist can also make adjustments based on reasons such as your crown touching first upon biting. 
• Avoid food and drinks that are too cold or too hot. 
• Use over-the-counter medications to alleviate the discomfort. Your dentist can help recommend the best one for you. 
• Be patient! Sensitivity after a crown is placed is quite common. The discomfort will gradually go away over time as your teeth and gums adjust to the dental rehabilitation and new crown.

Contact Lindner Dental in Bedford, NH

To schedule a crown placement or if you have any further questions about your crown sensitivity don’t hesitate to contact us at Lindner Dental! Our dental experts will assist you in making sure you get the best advice for helping your sensitivity and discomfort. Give us a call today at 603-624-3900 or fill out the contact form on our website and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible!