Possible Problems with a Dental Crown

Crowns aren't placed on perfect teeth. They're generally only required after a tooth has experienced some type of catastrophic event, such as fracture, tooth decay or a lost filling.
These same events can have a detrimental effect on other aspects of the tooth, like its nerve. It may, however, take time for these problems to develop. And for this reason, a tooth that previously seemed just fine, either before the crowning process was begun or even many years after, may suddenly begin to hurt.

• Discomfort or sensitivity - Patients may experience sensitivity immediately after the procedure as the anesthesia begins to wear off. If the tooth that has been crowned still has a nerve in it, you may experience some hot and cold sensitivity. Your dentist may recommend that you brush your teeth with a tooth paste designed for sensitive teeth. Pain or sensitivity that occurs when you bite down may mean that the crown is too high on the tooth. If this is the case, call your dentist. He or she can adjust the bite on the crown.
• Chipped crown - Dental crowns made of all porcelain can sometimes chip. If the chip is small, a composite resin can be used to repair the chip with the crown remaining in your mouth. If the chipping is extensive, the crown may need to be replaced.
• Loose crown - Sometimes the cement washes out from under the crown. Not only does this allow the crown to become loose, it allows bacteria to leak in and cause decay to the tooth that remains. If your crown feels loose, contact your dentist.
• Crown falls off - Sometimes crowns fall off. This can due to an improper fit or a lack of cement. If this happens, call your dentist. He or she will give you specific instructions on how to care for your tooth and crown for the day or so until you can be seen for an evaluation. Your dentist may be able to re-cement your crown in place; if not, a new crown will need to be made.
• Allergic reactions - Because the metals used to make crowns are usually a mixture of metals, a rare allergic reaction may occur. Let your dentist know about all allergies or sensitivities.
• Tooth pain - Ache, throbbing, pain when biting.
• “Bite” issues - Irregular bite, tenderness when biting.