One of my three new molar crowns hurts so bad that it feels like a nerve is exposed. I avoid chewing on the left side of my mouth because I feel intense pain if anything crunchy or chewy hits the tooth. My dentist said that I chew too forcefully, so the crown hurts. However, I had no problem before getting new CEREC crowns in March. Is my dentist being dishonest? Could she have done something wrong that’s causing the pain? Thanks. Konstance
Konstance
Your dental crowns should not hurt for months, even if you have a forceful bite.
What Causes a Crowned Tooth to Hurt?
If a new crown hurts when chewing, a dentist can explore these possible causes:
- Bite Issues: The crown placement can sometimes lead to a bite (the way your teeth meet) that is slightly too high. This means your lower teeth make stronger contact with the crowned teeth than others. The constant pressure can make your teeth sensitive and strain your jaw muscles and joints. You might even experience headaches, neck pain, or earaches. If adjustments haven’t resolved this completely, it’s worth getting a second opinion.
- Underlying Infection: While less common, a tooth beneath a crown might be infected. Root canal specialists (endodontists) are trained to identify subtle issues. The intensity of your pain suggests a possible need for root canal treatment.
Root Canal Treatment and Your Crowns
The good news is that even with root canal treatment, your new crowns might be salvageable. An endodontist can skillfully access the tooth for treatment without damaging the crown itself. You’ll only need new crowns if the existing ones are faulty or contribute to discomfort.
Next Steps
If the initial bite adjustments haven’t addressed the chewing pain, talk to your dentist about the possibility of an underlying infection. He or she can recommend the best course of action, whether further bite adjustments or a consultation with an endodontist.
Baton Rouge family dentist Dr. Ryan Perry sponsors this post. Please read about how he strives to provide his patients with the best care possible.