Getting a temporary crown is a common step in the process of receiving a permanent dental crown. While it's designed to protect your tooth while your permanent crown is being made, it's understandable to wonder, "Should a temporary crown hurt?" The short answer is: it shouldn't hurt significantly. However, some degree of sensitivity or discomfort is possible, and understanding the reasons behind it is crucial.
What are Temporary Crowns and Why Are They Used?
Before diving into pain, let's briefly cover temporary crowns. These are temporary restorations placed over a prepared tooth after a dentist removes a significant portion of the tooth's enamel and dentin to make room for a permanent crown. They are typically made of acrylic or metal and act as a protective cap, shielding the vulnerable tooth from further damage, infection, and sensitivity. They serve as a placeholder until the lab fabricates the custom-fit permanent crown.
Why Might a Temporary Crown Cause Discomfort?
While a well-placed temporary crown shouldn't be painful, several factors can contribute to mild discomfort or sensitivity:
1. Height of the Crown:
A temporary crown might feel slightly high or bulky, especially if it's not perfectly seated. This can irritate the gum tissue and cause some pressure or tenderness.
2. Cement Irritation:
The cement used to secure the temporary crown can sometimes irritate the gum tissue. This irritation can lead to slight discomfort or a burning sensation.
3. Tooth Sensitivity:
The tooth itself might be sensitive due to the preparation process. Nerve endings are exposed after the dentist removes tooth structure, making the tooth more vulnerable to temperature changes and pressure.
4. Loose or Shifting Crown:
If the temporary crown becomes loose or shifts, it can cause discomfort, sensitivity, or even sharp pain. Food particles can get trapped underneath, leading to irritation and infection.
5. Infection:
In rare instances, bacteria can enter beneath the temporary crown, causing an infection. This is usually accompanied by more severe pain, swelling, and possibly pus.
Is Some Discomfort Normal?
A small degree of sensitivity or pressure is possible and often considered normal, especially in the first few days. However, this discomfort should be mild and shouldn't interfere significantly with your daily life. Think of it as a mild ache or pressure rather than sharp or throbbing pain.
When Should You Contact Your Dentist?
It's crucial to contact your dentist immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Severe pain: Intense, throbbing pain is not normal and may indicate an infection or other serious issue.
- Swelling: Swelling around the tooth suggests infection and needs immediate attention.
- Loose crown: A loose crown needs to be re-cemented to avoid further complications.
- Increased sensitivity: While some sensitivity is expected, a marked increase or sensitivity to things that didn't bother you before needs evaluation.
- Pus or discharge: This is a clear sign of infection and requires immediate treatment.
How Long Does Temporary Crown Discomfort Last?
Most discomfort associated with a temporary crown is short-lived, usually resolving within a few days. However, if the discomfort persists beyond a week, or if it worsens, you should seek dental attention.
How Can You Manage Discomfort?
You can try over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to manage mild discomfort. Gently rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can also help soothe irritated gums. Avoid biting down hard on the affected tooth, and stick to soft foods until the discomfort subsides.
In conclusion, while a temporary crown shouldn't cause significant pain, some minor discomfort is possible. Understanding the potential causes and knowing when to contact your dentist can help ensure a smooth transition to your permanent crown. Remember, it's always best to err on the side of caution and seek professional advice if you are experiencing any significant pain or discomfort.
