Dental crowns are one of the most common and effective ways to restore a damaged or weakened tooth. They’re designed to look, feel, and function like your natural teeth. However, sometimes patients experience unexpected discomfort—especially when biting or chewing. If you've been asking, “Why does my crown hurt when I put pressure on it?”, it's a valid concern that shouldn't be ignored.
Pain from a dental crown may be temporary or persistent, but either way, it's important to understand what might be causing it. If you’re located in West Texas and need guidance, visiting an experienced dentist in Midland, like John K. Drisdale DMD, can help you find the root cause and resolve the issue quickly and effectively.
Here are six of the most common reasons your dental crown might hurt—and when it's time to make an appointment with your dentist.
1. The Crown Doesn’t Fit Properly
One of the leading causes of crown discomfort is a poor fit. A crown that is too high or not shaped to match your bite can put extra pressure on the affected tooth and surrounding ones. This misalignment can cause sharp or aching pain when chewing. Fortunately, this issue can often be fixed with a minor adjustment by your dentist.
2. Tooth Decay Beneath the Crown
Although crowns cover and protect a tooth, decay can still form underneath—especially if the crown has been in place for several years. Bacteria can enter through tiny gaps or cracks, leading to infection and pain when pressure is applied. If decay is present, the crown may need to be removed so the tooth can be treated and a new crown placed.
3. Inflamed or Exposed Tooth Nerve
If the tooth receiving the crown wasn’t treated with a root canal, the nerve may still be intact and sensitive. This can lead to pain under the crown, especially if the underlying nerve is inflamed or damaged. In such cases, your dentist might recommend a root canal to relieve the pressure and preserve the tooth.
4. Cracked or Damaged Crown
Crowns are durable, but not invincible. A small fracture or crack in the crown can allow bacteria to enter and irritate the underlying tooth. It can also cause discomfort when biting, especially if the crack causes the crown to flex under pressure. Replacing a cracked crown is typically the best course of action.
5. Gum Recession Around the Crown
Over time, gums can recede, exposing areas of the tooth that were once protected. This can make the area around the crown sensitive to pressure and temperature. Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental visits can help minimize the risk of gum issues affecting your crown.
6. Teeth Grinding or Clenching (Bruxism)
Bruxism—often occurring at night—puts a lot of pressure on your teeth, including crowns. If you grind or clench your teeth, this constant stress can wear down the crown or cause jaw pain. In many cases, a custom night guard can protect your teeth and reduce discomfort.
When Should You See a Dentist?
If you're consistently experiencing discomfort or pain when pressure is applied to your crown, it's time to see a professional. Waiting too long can lead to more serious issues such as infection, damage to the surrounding teeth, or the need for more complex treatments.
A trusted dentist in Midland, John K. Drisdale DMD, offers in-depth evaluations and personalized treatment plans to address crown sensitivity and related concerns. Whether it’s a minor bite adjustment or a more extensive restoration, his goal is to restore your comfort and keep your smile healthy.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
When you visit a dentist for crown discomfort, they’ll typically:
- Examine your bite and the crown’s position
- Take X-rays to check for decay or infection beneath the crown
- Assess gum health and potential signs of bruxism
- Recommend treatment based on the cause (e.g., adjustment, crown replacement, root canal, etc.)
With the right care, most crown-related pain can be resolved quickly and with minimal discomfort.
Final Thoughts
Dental crowns are meant to protect, not hurt. If you've been wondering, “Why does my crown hurt when I put pressure on it?”, don’t brush it off. Pain is often a sign that something isn’t quite right, and early intervention can prevent more serious problems down the road.
If you're in the area, consider scheduling a visit with John K. Drisdale DMD, a respected dentist in Midland, known for his patient-focused approach and expert restorative care.
John K. Drisdale DMD
2303 W Louisiana Ave, Midland, TX 79701, United States
+14326847424
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