Pain After a Dental Crown? What’s Normal and What’s Not

Getting a dental crown is a common and effective way to restore a damaged or decayed tooth. While the procedure is generally safe and routine, it’s not unusual to experience some discomfort afterward. But how do you know if what you’re feeling is a normal part of the healing process—or a sign that something’s wrong?

In this post, we’ll break down what to expect after getting a dental crown, which types of pain are considered normal, and when it’s time to check in with your dentist.

What to Expect After Getting a Dental Crown

After your dentist places a crown, it's normal to experience some sensitivity or mild soreness for a few days. Your tooth and surrounding gum tissue have just been through a procedure, and they need time to settle.

Here are a few common sensations that typically fall under the “normal” category:

• Mild discomfort when biting down

• Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures

• Soreness around the gum line

• Tenderness in the jaw if you had your mouth open for an extended period

These symptoms should gradually improve within a few days to a week. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can usually manage any lingering discomfort during this time.

Normal vs. Concerning Pain

Not all post-procedure pain is created equal. Here’s how to tell whether your discomfort is routine or requires further attention.

✅ Normal Pain:

• Dull ache or sensitivity that gets better over time

• Discomfort only when eating hard or sticky foods

• Gums feel sore but not swollen or bleeding

These are signs that your mouth is adjusting. However, if the discomfort persists beyond a week or worsens, it might be time to take a closer look.

???? When Pain Might Be a Problem:

• Sharp or throbbing pain that doesn’t improve

• Pain that keeps you awake at night

• Pain when biting down that feels like the crown is “too high”

• Swelling, redness, or signs of infection near the crown

• Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold, suggesting nerve involvement

These symptoms could point to several issues, such as a crown that doesn’t fit properly, a cracked tooth beneath the crown, or a nerve that’s become inflamed or infected.

Common Causes of Problematic Pain

If your pain doesn’t go away—or worsens—here are a few potential causes:

1. High Crown Placement

If the crown sits too high on the tooth, it may affect your bite, leading to discomfort or even jaw pain. This is usually an easy fix your dentist can adjust.

2. Tooth Nerve Irritation

Sometimes the process of preparing the tooth for a crown can irritate the nerve, leading to inflammation or sensitivity. In some cases, a root canal may be needed if the nerve doesn't heal on its own.

3. Gum Inflammation or Infection

Bacteria can sometimes get trapped under the crown or near the gum line, causing irritation or infection. Good oral hygiene is essential to prevent this.

4. Cracked or Damaged Tooth Under the Crown

If the tooth beneath the crown has cracked or deteriorated, it can cause ongoing pain and may require additional treatment.

When to Contact Your Dentist

Mild soreness is part of the healing journey, but sharp or persistent pain should never be ignored. If you’re unsure whether what you’re experiencing is normal, it’s always better to err on the side of caution.

Looking for a dentist near you who can help evaluate crown-related pain or offer solutions for a better fit? If you're in the Comox area, don't hesitate to reach out to a trusted dentist in Comox to get the care you need.

Preventing Future Crown Discomfort

Here are a few tips to keep your crowned tooth feeling great:

• Brush and floss daily to maintain healthy gums.

• Avoid chewing hard foods or ice with the crowned tooth.

• Visit your dentist regularly to ensure your crown remains in good condition.

Final Thoughts

Pain after a dental crown isn’t uncommon—but knowing what’s normal and what’s not can help you respond appropriately. Listen to your body, take care of your teeth, and don’t hesitate to seek help if something doesn’t feel right.

Need help or a second opinion? Reach out to a practice offering Dental Crowns Near You for professional guidance and peace of mind.