37 BEST Tips on Pain In Tooth With Crown When Biting Down

Pain in Tooth with Crown when Biting Down: Causes and Treatment Options

Having a crown on a tooth should ideally protect it from further damage and decay. But what happens when you experience pain in the tooth with the crown when biting down? It can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience.

In this article, we will explore the various causes of pain in the tooth with a crown when biting down, as well as the different treatment options available to alleviate the discomfort.

Understanding Crown Placement

Before we dive into the causes of pain, it's important to understand what a dental crown is and how it's placed. A dental crown is a cap that is placed over a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and improve its appearance.

The process of getting a crown involves removing the decay or damage from the tooth, shaping it, and then placing the crown over it. The crown is then cemented in place, effectively covering the entire tooth above the gum line. This process is typically done in two appointments.

Causes of Pain in Tooth with Crown when Biting Down

Now let's take a look at some of the most common causes of pain in a tooth with a crown when biting down:

1. Cracked Crown

A cracked crown is one of the most common causes of pain when biting down, especially if it's a newly placed crown. When a crown is cracked, it can cause pain, especially when pressure is applied, such as when biting down. If left untreated, the crack can worsen and even lead to the loss of the tooth.

2. Tooth Decay

It's possible for tooth decay to occur underneath the crown, which can lead to pain when biting down. If the decay is left untreated, it can spread and cause further damage to the tooth, including the root, leading to tooth loss.

3. Failed Root Canal

If you've had a root canal on the tooth with the crown, there's a chance that it didn't completely remove all of the infected tissue. This can lead to further pain and discomfort when biting down, as well as potential infection.

4. Misaligned Bite

Sometimes, a misaligned bite can cause pain when biting down on a tooth with a crown. This is because the pressure isn't distributed evenly, causing discomfort in certain areas of the mouth. Adjusting the bite may be necessary to alleviate the pain.

5. Gum Recession

When the gum tissue around the crown recedes, it can expose the sensitive root underneath, leading to pain and sensitivity when biting down or eating hot or cold foods.

Treatment Options for Pain in Tooth with Crown when Biting Down

Now that we've explored some of the most common causes of pain, let's discuss the various treatment options available:

1. Crown Replacement

If the pain is caused by a cracked or damaged crown, replacement may be necessary. A new crown will be placed over the tooth, effectively restoring its function and appearance.

2. Root Canal Retreatment

If the pain is caused by a failed root canal, retreatment may be necessary. This involves removing the damaged tissue and filling the root canal, effectively treating the infection and alleviating the pain.

3. Bite Adjustment

If the pain is caused by a misaligned bite, adjustments may be necessary to distribute the pressure more evenly. This can help alleviate the discomfort and prevent further damage to the tooth.

4. Gum Graft

If the pain is caused by gum recession, a gum graft may be necessary. This involves taking tissue from another area of the mouth and attaching it to the exposed root, effectively protecting it and reducing sensitivity.

Preventing Pain in Tooth with Crown when Biting Down

Prevention is always better than treatment. Here are some tips to prevent pain in a tooth with a crown when biting down:

• Practice good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day and flossing daily.

• Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.

• Avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods.

• Use a mouthguard if you grind your teeth at night.

• Wear a retainer if you've had orthodontic treatment to prevent shifting of the teeth.

When to See a Dentist for Pain in Tooth with Crown when Biting Down

If you're experiencing pain when biting down on a tooth with a crown, it's essential to see your dentist as soon as possible. Delaying treatment can result in further damage and potential tooth loss. Your dentist will examine the tooth and diagnose the underlying cause of the pain, then recommend an appropriate treatment plan.

How Long Should it Take for Pain to Go Away After Crown Placement?

It's normal to experience some sensitivity after getting a crown placed, but the pain should subside within a few days. However, if the pain persists or worsens, it's essential to see your dentist as soon as possible. This could be a sign of a more severe issue that needs immediate attention.

Can I Use Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers for Pain in Tooth with Crown when Biting Down?

Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate the pain temporarily. However, it's important to see your dentist to address the underlying cause, as pain relievers only mask the symptoms and don't treat the issue.

Can a Crown Cause Nerve Damage and Result in Pain?

It's rare for a crown to cause nerve damage, but it's possible if the crown is placed too close to the nerve. This can cause pain and sensitivity in the tooth, especially when biting down. If this happens, your dentist may need to remove the crown and perform additional treatment to address the nerve damage.

Can Chewing Gum Break a Crown and Cause Pain?

Chewing gum can put stress on a crown, especially if it's an older crown or has cracks or other damage. It can cause the crown to break or loosen, leading to pain and discomfort. It's best to avoid chewing gum if you have a crown or limit it to a minimum.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. What causes pain in a tooth with a crown when biting down?

There are several possible causes, including a cracked crown, tooth decay, failed root canal, misaligned bite, or gum recession.

2. Can a cracked crown cause pain when biting down?

Yes, a cracked crown is a common cause of pain when biting down. It can cause discomfort and even lead to the loss of the tooth if left untreated.

3. How do I know if my crown is cracked?

If you're experiencing pain when biting down on a tooth with a crown, your dentist can examine the crown and determine if it's cracked.

4. Is it normal to experience sensitivity after getting a crown placed?

Yes, it's normal to experience some sensitivity after getting a crown placed. However, if the pain persists or worsens, it's essential to see your dentist as soon as possible.

5. Can a misaligned bite cause pain in a tooth with a crown?

Yes, a misaligned bite can cause pain when biting down on a tooth with a crown. Adjusting the bite may be necessary to alleviate the pain.

6. Can a failed root canal cause pain in a tooth with a crown?

Yes, if a root canal fails to remove all the infected tissue, it can cause pain and discomfort when biting down.

7. Can gum recession cause pain in a tooth with a crown?

Yes, when gum tissue recedes, it can expose the sensitive root underneath, leading to pain and sensitivity when biting down.

8. Is it safe to chew gum with a crown?

It's best to avoid chewing gum if you have a crown or limit it to a minimum, as it can put stress on the crown and cause it to break or loosen.

9. What should I do if I experience pain when biting down on a tooth with a crown?

It's essential to see your dentist as soon as possible to diagnose the underlying cause of the pain and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.

10. Can over-the-counter pain relievers help alleviate the pain?

Over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate the pain temporarily, but it's important to see your dentist to address the underlying cause of the pain.

11. Is root canal retreatment necessary if I experience pain in a tooth with a crown after a root canal?

If the first root canal didn't completely remove all the infected tissue, retreatment may be necessary to alleviate the pain.

12. Can a crown cause nerve damage and lead to pain?

It's rare, but a crown placed too close to the nerve can cause nerve damage and lead to pain and sensitivity in the tooth.

13. How long should it take for the pain to go away after crown placement?

It's normal to experience some sensitivity after getting a crown placed, but the pain should subside within a few days. If it persists or worsens, see your dentist as soon as possible.

14. Can tooth decay occur underneath a crown and cause pain when biting down?

Yes, tooth decay can occur underneath a crown and cause pain and discomfort when biting down.

15. Can brushing too hard cause pain in a tooth with a crown when biting down?

Brushing too hard can cause gum recession, which can lead to pain and sensitivity in the tooth when biting down.

16. Can clenching or grinding my teeth cause pain in a tooth with a crown?

Yes, clenching or grinding your teeth can put stress on the crown and cause pain and discomfort when biting down.

17. Can a gum graft help alleviate pain caused by gum recession?

Yes, a gum graft can help protect the exposed root and reduce sensitivity and pain caused by gum recession.

18. Can a bite adjustment help alleviate pain when biting down on a tooth with a crown?

Yes, a bite adjustment can help distribute the pressure more evenly and alleviate pain caused by a misaligned bite.

19. Is it necessary to replace a cracked crown to alleviate pain when biting down?

If the pain is caused by a cracked or damaged crown, replacement may be necessary to alleviate the pain and restore function.

20. Can poor oral hygiene lead to pain in a tooth with a crown when biting down?

Yes, poor oral hygiene can lead to tooth decay and gum recession, which can cause pain and discomfort when biting down on a tooth with a crown.

Conclusion

Pain in a tooth with a crown when biting down can be a frustrating experience, but it's important to address it as soon as possible to prevent further damage and potential tooth loss.

By understanding the causes and treatment options available, you can make an informed decision and work with your dentist to find the best solution for you. Remember to practice good oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly to prevent future complications.

In conclusion, pain in a tooth with a crown when biting down can be caused by various factors, including a cracked crown, tooth decay, failed root canal, misaligned bite, or gum recession. The treatment options range from crown replacement to root canal retreatment and bite adjustment, depending on the underlying cause of the pain.

It's essential to see your dentist as soon as possible if you experience pain in a tooth with a crown when biting down to prevent further damage and potential tooth loss. Remember to practice good oral hygiene, visit your dentist regularly, and avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods.