A crowned tooth hurting years after the procedure is concerning, but not necessarily uncommon. While a crown is designed to protect and restore a damaged tooth, several factors can lead to pain long after placement. Understanding the potential causes and seeking timely professional help are crucial for preserving your oral health. This article explores the reasons why a crowned tooth might hurt years later, addressing common questions and offering insights into potential solutions.
Why Does My Crowned Tooth Hurt Years After Placement?
This is the most common question individuals ask when experiencing this issue. Pain in a crowned tooth years after the procedure can stem from various sources, often related to the underlying tooth structure, the crown itself, or surrounding tissues. These include:
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Underlying Tooth Decay: Even with a crown, decay can still occur beneath it, especially if there was pre-existing decay that wasn’t completely addressed before the crown placement. Bacteria can find their way under the crown, leading to infection and pain.
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Pulpitis (Inflammation or Infection of the Tooth Pulp): The pulp, the soft tissue inside your tooth containing nerves and blood vessels, can become inflamed or infected, causing significant pain, even if it was seemingly healthy at the time of crowning. This can happen due to trauma, bacterial infection, or the gradual breakdown of the tooth's structural integrity.
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Cracked Tooth: A pre-existing crack in the tooth or a new fracture under the crown can cause intermittent or persistent pain. The crown may mask the crack, making diagnosis more challenging.
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Periodontal Disease (Gum Disease): Gum disease can impact the tissues supporting the tooth, leading to inflammation, infection, and pain around the crown. Gum recession might also expose the margin of the crown, creating a sensitive area.
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Crown Issues: While less common, problems with the crown itself can cause discomfort. These include a poorly fitting crown, a fractured crown, or a crown that has come loose.
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Sinus Infection: In the case of upper molars, a sinus infection might manifest as tooth pain. This is due to the proximity of the upper molars to the maxillary sinuses.
What Causes Pain Under a Dental Crown?
Pain under a dental crown typically originates from problems within the tooth structure itself. As mentioned above, decay, inflammation of the pulp (pulpitis), or a cracked tooth are the primary culprits. The crown essentially acts as a barrier, sometimes making it difficult to diagnose the underlying problem.
Can a Crowned Tooth Still Get a Cavity?
Yes, even a crowned tooth can still get a cavity. Bacteria can penetrate the gum line or find their way under the crown, leading to decay. Regular dental check-ups and meticulous oral hygiene are essential to prevent this.
How Do I Know if My Crowned Tooth Needs to Be Replaced?
Several signs indicate that your crown may need replacing. These include persistent pain, sensitivity to temperature changes, looseness of the crown, visible cracks or chips, or discoloration under the crown. If you notice any of these signs, it's crucial to consult your dentist.
What Happens If a Crowned Tooth Is Infected?
If a crowned tooth becomes infected, your dentist will likely need to remove the crown to access and treat the infection. This may involve a root canal to remove the infected pulp, followed by cleaning, disinfection, and refilling of the root canal space. Once the infection is treated, a new crown may be placed.
When Should I See a Dentist About My Crowned Tooth Pain?
Don't delay seeking professional help if you experience persistent pain or discomfort in your crowned tooth. Prompt treatment can often prevent more extensive and costly procedures down the line.
Disclaimer: This information is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified dentist for diagnosis and treatment of any dental concerns.
