Dental crowns are designed to restore damaged or decayed teeth, offering both functional support and aesthetic improvement. When properly placed, a crown should feel and function like a natural tooth. However, it’s not uncommon for some patients to experience discomfort or pain when chewing after getting a crown. So, is it normal for a crown to hurt when chewing? The short answer is: it depends. While some sensitivity can be expected shortly after the procedure, persistent pain might signal an underlying issue that requires professional attention.

Understanding the Purpose of a Dental Crown

A dental crown is essentially a cap that covers a tooth to restore its shape, strength, and size. Dentists often recommend crowns after procedures like root canals, large fillings, or to protect a cracked or worn-down tooth. The goal is to make chewing and daily activities feel natural again. So when discomfort arises—especially when applying pressure—it’s worth investigating further.

Why Does My Crown Hurt When I Put Pressure On It?

If you’ve found yourself wondering, "why does my crown hurt when I put pressure on it?", you’re not alone. Several factors could be contributing to this discomfort:

1. High Bite: If the crown is slightly too tall, it may interfere with your bite, causing pain when you chew.

2. Tooth Sensitivity: The tooth beneath the crown might still be sensitive, especially if the crown was placed recently.

3. Nerve Damage: In some cases, a crown can aggravate the nerve inside the tooth, leading to sharp or persistent pain.

4. Cement Leakage or Decay: If the cement holding the crown begins to fail, bacteria can seep in, leading to decay or infection under the crown.

5. Cracks or Damage: A cracked crown or tooth underneath can also lead to discomfort, especially when pressure is applied.

If your discomfort lasts more than a few days, or the pain intensifies, it’s time to reach out to a dental professional.

When to See a Dentist

While minor soreness may not be a cause for concern, continuous or increasing pain is not typical. A properly seated crown should not hurt during normal activities like chewing. That’s why it’s important to schedule an appointment with an experienced professional. If you’re located in Texas, a trusted dentist in Midland, such as John K. Drisdale DMD, can help determine the root cause of your discomfort and provide the appropriate treatment.

Dr. Drisdale and his team take the time to ensure that crowns are not only perfectly fitted but also tailored to each patient’s bite, reducing the chance of pain or complications later on.

What to Expect at Your Dental Visit

When you visit your dentist for crown-related discomfort, here’s what might happen:

• Bite Assessment: Your dentist will check if your crown is too high and make adjustments if needed.

• X-rays: Imaging may be used to check the tooth underneath for issues like decay or infection.

• Crown Evaluation: The integrity of the crown itself will be assessed for cracks or other damage.

• Treatment Plan: Depending on the findings, you may need a bite adjustment, crown replacement, or additional procedures like a root canal.

Preventing Crown Pain in the Future

To avoid complications with future crowns:

• Choose an experienced dentist who uses high-quality materials.

• Maintain excellent oral hygiene to prevent decay.

• Report any discomfort early so it can be addressed promptly.

Final Thoughts

To answer the question—is it normal for a crown to hurt when chewing?—a little sensitivity right after the procedure can be normal, but ongoing pain isn’t. If you’ve been dealing with discomfort and are asking yourself, “why does my crown hurt when I put pressure on it?”, don’t ignore the symptoms. Reach out to a trusted dentist in Midland, such as John K. Drisdale DMD, for a thorough evaluation. Prompt care not only relieves your discomfort but also protects your overall dental health.

Taking action now can save you from more extensive—and expensive—treatment down the road.

John K. Drisdale DMD
2303 W Louisiana Ave, Midland, TX 79701, United States
+14326847424
https://www.dentistryofmidland.com/
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