A crown, or dental crown, is a tooth-shaped cap placed over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance. While crowns are designed to be durable and long-lasting, pain when biting down can indicate a problem. This pain isn't just a minor inconvenience; it's a signal that something requires attention. Let's explore the potential reasons behind this discomfort.
What Could Be Causing the Pain?
Several factors can cause pain in a crowned tooth when biting down. These range from relatively minor issues easily resolved by your dentist to more serious problems requiring more extensive treatment.
1. High Crown:
This is one of the most common culprits. If the crown is placed too high, it can cause your jaw to be misaligned, leading to excessive pressure on the tooth and surrounding tissues. This pressure translates into pain, especially when biting down. A simple adjustment by your dentist can usually solve this problem.
2. Cracked or Fractured Crown:
Over time, or due to significant force, a crown can crack or fracture. This compromises its protective function, potentially exposing the underlying tooth to sensitivity and pain, especially when pressure is applied during biting. Repair or replacement might be necessary.
3. Infection Under the Crown:
Bacteria can seep under the crown, leading to an infection. This infection can irritate the nerve of the tooth, causing significant pain that intensifies when biting. This requires prompt professional attention to prevent further complications.
4. Tooth Decay or Gum Disease:
Even with a crown in place, decay can still occur on the remaining tooth structure or gum disease can develop. This can cause inflammation and pain, particularly when biting. Treatment will depend on the extent of the damage.
5. Pulpitis (Inflammation of the Tooth Pulp):
Before a crown was placed, there might have been underlying inflammation of the tooth pulp (the inner part of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels). Even after crown placement, this inflammation can persist or worsen, resulting in pain when biting. Root canal treatment might be necessary.
6. Bite Malalignment:
Problems with your bite, even unrelated to the crowned tooth, can stress the crowned tooth, resulting in pain when biting down. An orthodontist or dentist specializing in TMJ disorders might be consulted.
7. Sinusitis:
While less common, pain from a sinus infection can sometimes be referred to the teeth, particularly the upper molars. This pain can mimic pain associated with a crowned tooth. A medical evaluation is needed in this case.
8. Peri-implantitis (If a crown is on an implant):
If the crown is placed on a dental implant, pain when biting down could indicate peri-implantitis – an infection of the tissues surrounding the implant. This needs prompt attention from your dentist or periodontist.
What Should You Do?
Do not delay seeking professional help. While some causes may seem minor, others can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Your dentist can accurately diagnose the problem and recommend the appropriate treatment. Delaying treatment can result in:
- Increased pain: The pain will likely worsen without intervention.
- Infection spread: Untreated infections can spread to surrounding teeth and tissues.
- Tooth loss: Severe damage could eventually lead to the loss of the tooth.
- Increased cost of treatment: Early intervention is generally less costly and less invasive than extensive repairs or replacements.
Schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible to address the pain. Be sure to describe the pain clearly, including when it occurs (e.g., only when biting down, constant pain) and its intensity. A thorough examination will help your dentist determine the cause and provide effective treatment.
Remember, this information is for general knowledge and should not be considered a substitute for professional dental advice. Always consult with your dentist for any concerns regarding your oral health.
