Experiencing intermittent tooth pain under a dental crown can be frustrating and concerning. This type of pain, which comes and goes, often indicates an underlying problem that needs attention. Ignoring it can lead to more significant issues down the line, potentially requiring more extensive and costly dental work. This comprehensive guide will explore the possible causes, when to seek professional help, and what you can expect during treatment.
What Causes Intermittent Tooth Pain Under a Crown?
Several factors can contribute to this type of toothache. It's crucial to understand that the pain isn't necessarily from the crown itself, but rather from the tooth underneath.
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Decay: Even with a crown in place, tooth decay can still occur, particularly if there was pre-existing decay not completely addressed before the crown placement. Bacteria can seep under the crown, causing inflammation and pain that might be intermittent initially.
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Infection: An infection in the tooth's pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth) can cause throbbing pain, sometimes appearing and disappearing depending on the infection's stage and severity. This is a serious issue requiring prompt dental intervention.
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Inflammation: Irritation or inflammation of the gum tissue surrounding the crowned tooth can cause intermittent pain. This could be due to poor oral hygiene, gum disease, or an ill-fitting crown.
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Cracked Tooth: A crack in the tooth structure, even a tiny one, can cause pain that comes and goes depending on factors like biting pressure, temperature changes, or chewing. The crown might mask the visual signs of a crack, making diagnosis challenging.
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Sinus Issues: Pain originating in the sinuses can sometimes be referred to the upper teeth. This is more likely if the pain is in the upper teeth and is accompanied by other sinus symptoms like congestion or pressure.
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Abscess: A collection of pus at the root of the tooth is a serious complication. An abscess can cause intense, throbbing pain that may be intermittent initially, but will likely worsen if left untreated.
How Long Can You Wait Before Seeing a Dentist?
While intermittent pain might tempt you to delay a dental visit, it’s best to seek professional help sooner rather than later. The longer you wait, the greater the chance the problem will worsen, leading to more complex and expensive treatment. Schedule an appointment as soon as possible if the pain:
- Increases in intensity: A gradual increase in pain severity is a warning sign.
- Is accompanied by swelling: Swelling indicates inflammation or infection.
- Is accompanied by fever: Fever suggests a serious infection.
- Makes it difficult to eat or sleep: The pain significantly impacts your quality of life.
What Happens During a Dental Visit for Intermittent Crown Pain?
Your dentist will conduct a thorough examination, which may include:
- Visual Inspection: Checking for signs of decay, inflammation, or cracks.
- X-rays: To identify problems beneath the gum line or within the tooth structure.
- Percussion Test: Gently tapping the tooth to check for sensitivity.
- Palpation: Feeling around the tooth and gum tissue for any abnormalities.
Based on the findings, your dentist will recommend the appropriate treatment, which might involve:
- Root Canal: If an infection reaches the pulp, a root canal might be necessary to remove the infected tissue and save the tooth.
- Crown Replacement: If the existing crown is damaged or ill-fitting, it may need to be replaced.
- Extraction: In severe cases of infection or damage, tooth extraction may be necessary.
- Antibiotics: If an infection is present, antibiotics may be prescribed to fight the infection.
Can I Treat Tooth Pain Under a Crown at Home?
While home remedies might temporarily alleviate discomfort, they shouldn't replace professional dental care. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain, but they won't address the underlying cause. Rinsing with salt water can temporarily soothe inflamed gums. However, it's crucial to schedule an appointment with your dentist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
What are the Long-Term Effects of Ignoring Tooth Pain Under a Crown?
Ignoring intermittent tooth pain under a crown can lead to serious consequences, including:
- Tooth Loss: Severe infection or damage can lead to tooth loss if left untreated.
- Spread of Infection: An untreated infection can spread to surrounding teeth or tissues.
- More Extensive and Costly Treatment: Delayed treatment usually requires more extensive procedures and is often more expensive than early intervention.
- Jawbone Damage: Untreated infections can damage the surrounding bone.
Is it Normal for a Crown to Cause Pain?
While it's not normal for a properly placed crown to cause pain, some minor discomfort might be experienced immediately after placement due to the temporary sensitivity of the tooth. However, intermittent pain that persists or worsens is not normal and warrants a visit to the dentist.
Remember, seeking prompt dental attention is vital when experiencing persistent or recurrent tooth pain under a crown. Early diagnosis and treatment can save your tooth and prevent more serious complications.
