A throbbing crowned tooth often signals a serious issue like an infection, nerve damage, tooth decay under the crown, or gum problems, but it can also be due to a high bite or recent trauma. While some mild sensitivity after placement is normal, severe or persistent throbbing, especially with swelling or pain when biting, requires an urgent dentist visit to diagnose and treat the underlying cause, potentially needing a root canal or crown replacement.
How to Relieve Tooth Crown Pain
Traumatized or Inflamed Tooth Nerve (Pulpitis)
Preparing a tooth for a crown, especially after treating deep tooth decay or performing a root canal, can sometimes irritate the tooth's nerve. This may cause throbbing pain, especially when exposed to hot and cold foods, or persistent pain if the nerve doesn't recover.
Key Signs Your Dental Crown Might Be Infected
A dull ache or sharp pain around the crowned tooth is a red flag. Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods that doesn't go away could indicate an infection. Pain when chewing or biting is another warning sign.
Some common indicators of tooth decay under a crown include pain and sensitivity, swelling or inflammation, foul taste or odor, darkening or discoloration under the crown, and even changes in the crown's fit or shape as the decay progresses.
Persistent pain or sensitivity – This indicates nerve damage. Deep decay close to the pulp – Can cause infection. Abscess, swelling, or visible pus – Signs of severe infection. X-ray shows pulp inflammation or infection – A root canal is required.
A failed crown often feels uncomfortable or “off” in ways that healthy teeth don't. You might experience a dull ache or throbbing pain in the crowned tooth, sharp pain when biting down, or persistent sensitivity to temperature changes.
Root canal therapy is a commonly performed procedure to treat dental crown infections while preserving the affected tooth. It involves removing the infected pulp from the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the root canals, and sealing them to prevent reinfection.
Even with high-quality crowns for teeth, microscopic gaps can form at the margins. These tiny openings allow bacteria to creep in, eventually leading to rotten teeth under crowns or a rotting tooth under crown if untreated.
10 Signs Your Dental Crown May Need Repair or Replacement
Tooth pain under a crown is not normal and should not be ignored. Whether it is an infection, a nerve issue, or a poorly fitted crown, addressing the problem early can save your tooth and prevent more serious issues. If you are experiencing discomfort, consult your dentist for the best treatment options.
In general, dental crowns are designed to be permanent, not temporary. However, under certain conditions, a dentist may safely remove and re-cement a crown. This is typically only possible if: The crown is still in good condition (no cracks or wear).
Self-care tips
The 3-3-3 rule for toothache is a temporary pain management strategy: take 3 ibuprofen (200mg each) three times a day for 3 days, but 3 hours apart (or every 8 hours), to reduce inflammation and pain until you can see a dentist; it's crucial to consult a doctor first, especially with underlying conditions, as it's not a cure but a short-term fix for inflammation.
It can happen due to: Bacteria trapped under the crown. Generally, deep and complex canals can be hard to clean during a root canal, increasing the risk of trapping bacteria.
Getting a dental crown should ideally be a smooth experience. However, for some, discomfort sets in shortly after the procedure, or even years later. This discomfort can range from mild sensitivity to sharp pain when biting or chewing.
Signs of Crown Infection
If the cavity was caught at an early stage, a simple dental filling can be placed at the margin of the dental crown. However, the area will need to be monitored closely because the seal of a filling is not as strong and could possibly leak over time.
Clinical research published in multiple peer-reviewed dental journals shows that with proper care, dental crowns last between 10-15 years on average. The dental crown lifespan can vary significantly based on several factors.
If you've been told that you need to replace a dental crown, you might be wondering how uncomfortable the process will be. It's a common question patients ask, especially if they've had a tough dental experience in the past. The good news is that replacing a dental crown is usually a smooth and painless procedure.
8 Signs That You Might Need a Root Canal
There is no definitive answer to how many times they can be replaced, as it depends on a variety of factors. Generally, well-maintained ones can last 10 to 15 years or more before they need to be replaced. However, in some cases, they may need to be replaced more frequently, such as every 5 to 7 years.
Dentists use crowns if the original tooth is cracked, chipped, or broken; if it requires a filling that's too large for the tooth to support; if it has too much decay or is too worn; or if it's extremely discolored or misshapen. A tooth is also crowned to cover a dental implant or hold a bridge in place.
Absolutely! Dentists can still make gentle adjustments even after the dental cap has been securely cemented. These tweaks help ensure that it fits comfortably and functions properly, providing a natural feel and optimal bite for the patient.