Ouch! My Crown Hurts! Now What?

Over 15 million Americans have at least one crown to protect a weak and damaged tooth or to make a tooth more aesthetically pleasing. Usually, crowns that are well taken care of can last between 15 and 20 years, although some crowns last longer. If you have a crown that is hurting, especially when you bite down, you may need to visit a dentist soon. Here are some reasons your crown might be hurting. 

What Is A Crown?

A crown is usually made of porcelain over a metal cap. Crowns are cemented over your natural teeth. Often, crowns are used to protect a tooth that has been damaged due to cracks, chips, breaks, or tooth decay. Crowns can also be used to cover a discolored tooth to make your smile uniformly white. Also, crowns can cover a too-small tooth to make it look like your other teeth. 

Why Am I Having Pain?

Your crown could be hurting for a number of reasons. If you have a new crown that is hurting, you may need to have it adjusted so that it fits your bite. Everyone’s bite is different, and the dentist can make sure it fits perfectly. Another reason your crown might be hurting is due to a cracked or broken crown. A cracked or broken crown can cause the crown and the tooth underneath to ache. 

While it is rare, you may have tooth decay or gum disease in the area of your crown. If your crown is broken, it’s possible bacteria got into your crown and caused tooth decay, which could cause it to hurt. Gum disease can also cause your crown to hurt, especially if the gums are infected. 

If you are worried that you’re having pain in your crown, you need to go visit the dentist. They will be able to find the source of your pain and fix it, so you can get back to living your life pain-free.