Are you experiencing tooth pain after completing a crown? It's normal to have a few days of discomfort after crown placement as your new tooth settles and your bite adjusts. However, if the pain persists, contact your dentist, as you may have an infection under the crown. Here's what you should know.
Why Would You Need a Root Canal After Getting a Crown?
A crown is designed to cover and protect your remaining natural tooth completely. However, if your remaining tooth structure decays or fractures down to the nerve, it can become infected and cause discomfort. Even though your crown can't be affected by tooth decay, the bacteria that cause decay can get underneath it.
Here are some signs that you might need a root canal after a crown:
- Lingering temperature sensitivity — Persistent tooth sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures could indicate decay under your crown.
- Changes to your gum tissue — If the gum tissue surrounding the tooth becomes inflamed or develops a white blister, it can indicate an infection.
- Pain when chewing — If biting or chewing your food becomes uncomfortable, it can be a sign of decay or an infection under your crown.
This could mean that you'll need a root canal after a crown to preserve your natural tooth structure. A root canal removes the infected tissue from inside your tooth while preserving the remaining natural structure. Contact your dentist right away if you're experiencing persistent tooth pain after a crown.
Does a Root Canal Hurt?
No. A root canal actually relieves pain by eliminating the infection in your tooth. Your dentist will also numb the tooth before your procedure, which further helps to alleviate pain.
If you're experiencing any of the symptoms of a tooth infection, please don't wait to contact our team for prompt care. A tooth infection won't resolve on its own.