It's common for a tooth to feel sensitive after getting a crown. This is usually due to the removal of tooth enamel required to properly place your crown, and it typically alleviates after a few days. However, if you continue experiencing tooth sensitivity after your crown without relief, you should contact your dentist in Jensen Beach, FL, right away so we can examine your tooth.
If tooth sensitivity occurs on an older crown, there could be a few reasons for your discomfort. Read on to learn more.
#1 Decay or a Cavity
While a crown covers your tooth entirely, it can still be susceptible to bacteria getting underneath it. If bacteria gets under your crown, it could impact the healthy tooth structure underneath and cause a cavity. The discomfort you're feeling could indicate that you have a cavity under your crown, and Dr. Wigley will need to restore it.
#2 Infection
If bacteria gets under your crown and reaches your nerve, it could cause an infection. Tooth infections are painful and won't resolve on their own. Dr. Wigley will need to remove your crown, eliminate the infection with root canal treatment, and restore your tooth with a new crown.
#3 Tooth Fracture
If your crown becomes fractured, it could allow air or bacteria into your tooth, causing sensitivity. We'll need to replace a fractured crown to restore the integrity of your tooth.
#4 Gum Recession
Gum recession can result in root exposure, which can be painful. Carefully brushing and flossing around your crown daily will help protect you from developing problems like gum disease that cause recession.
Contact Your Jensen Beach Dentist
If you've just had your crown placed and are experiencing tooth sensitivity that doesn't resolve in a few days, please call us at (772) 334-4004. You can also contact us if you have an older crown that is causing sensitivity.