Should I Expect Tooth Sensitivity after Filling or Crown Treatment?
Restorative dentistry treatments can help alleviate dental pain and restore the strength and function of the teeth, making it possible for patients with dental health problems to enjoy a healthy, beautiful smile.
However, after certain restorative dentistry treatments are performed, patients may experience some tooth sensitivity. However, sensitivity should go away as the teeth and gums recover from treatment.
If you experience persistent tooth sensitivity after a filling or dental crown is placed, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Brooklyn, NY dentists Eugene D. Stanislaus or Lisa Reid to find out which treatments can help alleviate your tooth sensitivity.
Some Tooth Sensitivity May Be Expected after Treatment
It's not entirely uncommon to experience some tooth sensitivity after the placement of a dental filling or crown. Although modern dental techniques have made receiving a filling or crown far less painful, some people may find the treated tooth and surrounding area will feel tender and sensitive immediately after treatment.
For most people who experience some tooth sensitivity after treatment, sensitivity will decrease as the tooth and surrounding tissue recover. If tooth sensitivity persists for more than a few days, it may be a sign of an underlying problem that should be assessed with a dental exam so further treatment may be performed if necessary.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity after a Filling?
Some patients may notice increased dental sensitivity after dental filling treatment. When tooth sensitivity continues after treatment or becomes worse, it may indicate an underlying dental issue.
Some possible underlying issues that can cause increased tooth sensitivity after a dental filling include:
- Root canal infection: If tooth sensitivity occurs or becomes worse after a dental filling, it may be a sign of a painful root canal infection. Root canal infections happen when the inner pulp tissues, blood vessels, and nerves of the teeth become infected with bacteria. Root canal infections require dental treatment to restore oral health and alleviate pain.
- Gaps around filling: When fillings aren't fitted properly, gaps may be present. This can allow bacteria and hot or cold temperatures to reach the nerves of the tooth, leading to increased tooth sensitivity.
- Filling affecting bite: Sometimes a filling may affect a person's bite, causing sensitivity when eating and drinking. If a filling is too high or otherwise interfering with a person's bite, adjusting the filling can help.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity after a Dental Crown?
As with dental fillings, tooth sensitivity may occur after dental crown treatment but should resolve as you recover. If tooth sensitivity continues beyond several days after treatment, there may be a problem with the tooth supporting the crown or the crown itself. A dental exam should be performed to determine the cause of tooth sensitivity, which may include such causes as:
- Bite interference: Dental crowns that sit too high can cause issues with the bite, sometimes causing pain and tooth sensitivity. Corrections can be made by a dentist to alleviate sensitivity.
- Problems with the supporting tooth: Damage or other problems with the tooth supporting a dental crown can lead to the dental crown irritating the tooth's nerve, increasing tooth sensitivity. In such cases, it may be necessary to remove the crown in order to treat the underlying tooth.
Schedule a Consultation
If you're experiencing tooth sensitivity after receiving a filling or dental crown, treatment is available to relieve your pain. To learn more about your treatment options, we invite you to call our staff at (718) 857-6639 and schedule a consultation.