Discomfort After Dental Crowns: What You Need to Know - Dentistry

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Hello! It sounds like you are experiencing some discomfort after getting your dental crowns, and I understand how frustrating that can be. Let's break down your situation and explore what might be happening, as well as what steps you can take to address your concerns.

Firstly, it's important to recognize that discomfort after dental crown placement can occur for several reasons. Since you mentioned that two of your crowns are on teeth that have undergone root canal treatment, it’s possible that the underlying tooth structure is sensitive. After a root canal, the tooth can sometimes be more susceptible to pressure and temperature changes, leading to discomfort when biting or when pressure is applied, such as when you use your tongue to push against the crown.

The fact that you experience pain when biting down or when your tongue touches the crown could indicate a few things:
1. Crown Fit: If the crown is not properly fitted, it may be too high or misaligned, causing discomfort when you bite. This can lead to pressure on the surrounding gums and teeth, resulting in pain.

2. Gum Health: If your gums are inflamed or irritated, this could also contribute to the discomfort you’re feeling. Sometimes, crowns can irritate the gums if they are not perfectly contoured or if there is plaque buildup around the crown.

3. Underlying Tooth Issues: If there are any remaining issues with the tooth that underwent root canal treatment, such as infection or inflammation, this could also cause discomfort.

4. Sensitivity: After the placement of crowns, some patients experience sensitivity to temperature or pressure, especially if the underlying tooth was previously treated for decay or trauma.

Regarding your question about whether the crowns can be separated, it depends on how they were constructed. If the crowns were designed to be a single unit (often referred to as a "bridge"), separating them may not be feasible without damaging the crowns or the underlying teeth. However, if they were meant to be individual crowns, a skilled dentist can assess the situation and determine if they can be separated.

Given your discomfort and the lack of satisfactory communication from your current dentist, it is absolutely reasonable to seek a second opinion. Here are some steps you can take:
1. Consult Another Dentist: Look for a dentist who specializes in restorative dentistry or prosthodontics. They can provide a thorough evaluation of your crowns and the surrounding teeth and gums.

2. Communicate Your Concerns: When you visit a new dentist, be sure to clearly explain your symptoms and your previous experiences. This will help them understand your situation better.

3. Ask for Diagnostic Imaging: If necessary, request X-rays or other imaging to assess the fit of the crowns and the health of the underlying teeth.

4. Consider a Periodontal Evaluation: If gum health is a concern, a periodontist can provide specialized care for any gum issues that may be contributing to your discomfort.

5. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Continue to practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly, especially around the crowns, to prevent any gum issues.

In summary, while some discomfort can be normal after crown placement, persistent pain is not. Seeking a second opinion is a wise choice, and a new dentist can help you determine the best course of action to alleviate your discomfort. Remember, your oral health is important, and you deserve to feel comfortable and confident in your dental care.