If you have recently had a dental crown placed on one of your teeth, then you may notice that the tooth is a bit sensitive. Sensitivity can occur for several reasons. Keep reading to learn why your tooth may hurt and also how you can reduce the discomfort.

Why Does A Crown Tooth Hurt?

A tooth may hurt after the placement of a dental crown due to the dental trauma that led to the need for the crown. In some cases, pain and sensitivity can develop a few days or more after the traumatic incident. So, the pain may simply be a delayed reaction to the original trauma.

Also, teeth are prepared for crown adhesion through the removal of the dental enamel. The underlying dentin is much more sensitive than the enamel and it may release strong sensations once it is exposed, even if it is covered by the crown.

Trauma to the tooth as well as crown preparation can cause some pulp stress as well. This stress leads to pulp inflammation, and this issue is often called pulpitis. The pulp will heal over time and inflammation will reduce and the discomfort will subside as well. This is also true if the gums are damaged during the dental treatments. 

How Can Pain Be Reduced?

Dental sensitivity will reduce within a few weeks to a month in most cases. You do not need to treat the issue but there are several things you can do to eliminate some of the discomfort. You do want to reduce pressure on the tooth for several days after crown placement. This means staying away from crunchy and hard foods and biting down gingerly on the tooth. Also, try to avoid foods that are hot or cold. Even a warm cup of coffee can cause strong pain sensations, so wait for your beverage to cool first before drinking it.

You can take NSAID pain relievers to reduce inflammation inside the tooth. Ibuprofen is often suggested and a dosage between 400 and 800 milligrams is often recommended. 

You can also rinse the mouth out with saltwater two to three times a day to reduce inflammation. Salt pulls moisture out of the tissues to reduce the swelling. 

If you continue to use pain control methods for over a month, or if the pain seems to get worse over time, then make arrangements to see your dentist as soon as possible. Pulp and nerve removal may be necessary. To learn more about dental treatments, contact a business such as Demianko Dental Care.