Sensitivity After Dental Crown Treatment
Major tooth decay and fractures are best addressed with dental crowns. These caps cover a damaged tooth, protecting it from further harm while restoring its ability to function normally. Dr. Stephen J. Malki has placed numerous dental crowns on patients from Bergen County, NJ, and also offers tips about proper aftercare.
We mention aftercare since many dental crown patients experience tooth sensitivity after treatment. Let’s discuss why that is and what can be done to minimize discomfort.
How Dental Crowns Are Placed
When placing a dental crown, a small amount of the tooth enamel is removed in order to accommodate the cap. This allows for a secure fit and that the crown is protecting strong tooth structure.
By doing this, there is often less enamel in place to cover the underlying dentin layer of the tooth. Dentin is porous, making it more sensitive to temperature and pressure than enamel. This leads to tooth sensitivity until you get accustomed to having the crown in place.
How Serious Is the Tooth Sensitivity After Getting Crowns?
The tooth sensitivity can be the source of discomfort, but it is not as bad as having a decayed or damaged tooth. It can be managed with temporary changes to your lifestyle.
How Long Will the Tooth Sensitivity Last?
Typically the tooth sensitivity after getting a crown will last a week or so. Patients will notice improvements day by day until they are finally used to having the crown in place. During the consultation process at our Bergen County dental care center, we can discuss these matters in much greater detail with you.
Below are some tips on how to minimize discomfort after you get a dental crown.
Altering Your Diet to Reduce Tooth Sensitivity
Changing what you eat for a few days can help when your teeth are particularly sensitive. Be sure to eat soft foods that do not require too much chewing. Avoid any foods that are crunchy, crispy, tough, or that require a lot of heavy chewing. You should also avoid sticky candies such as toffee, caramel, and chewing gum since these could pull at the crown and dislodge it.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to avoid foods and beverages that are hot or cold in temperature. These can cause particularly acute bouts of tooth sensitivity.
Good Oral Hygiene When Your Crowns Are Sensitive
You should continue to brush and floss when you get new dental crowns. To avoid sensitivity while cleaning your teeth, be sure to use a toothpaste for people with sensitive teeth. Be gentle but thorough around the new crown. Flossing should similarly be done with great care to avoid doing harm to the crown while still cleaning the spaces between teeth.
Attend Follow-Up Visits with Your Dentist
There will be a few follow-up visits with your dentist after getting a crown. Be sure to attend all of these visits as scheduled. This will be an opportunity to have your recovery monitored and to discuss any concerns about the new crown in place.
What If My Tooth Sensitivity Doesn’t Improve?
If your tooth sensitivity doesn’t improve or even gets worse, be sure to speak with your dentist as soon as possible. This could be the sign of a complication that requires professional care.
Contact Malki Dental
If you live in Bergen County and would like to learn more about dental crowns, be sure to contact a skilled cosmetic and restorative dentist. To schedule a consultation at Malki Dental, call (201) 308-0258. Our team is here to help.
