Crown Lengthening: Causes of Tooth Mobility and Pain

Crown lengthening surgery

Due to issues with dental crowns, the dentist recommended a crown lengthening procedure, which was performed on two teeth.
However, nearly two weeks post-procedure, both teeth are slightly mobile, and one tooth experiences mild pain when pressure is applied to the side.
I consulted the original dentist, who suggested monitoring the situation but did not provide a clear explanation.
(These issues were not present before the crown lengthening procedure, following the root canal treatment.) What could be the possible problem? Thank you.

JKK, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/04/24

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry

Dear Ms.
JKK,
Hello! Crown lengthening is primarily performed when there is deep decay, requiring the crown to be extended.
However, this also results in a relative shortening of the root, so it is essential to monitor the situation and reduce occlusal forces.
Please communicate frequently with your dentist! Thank you! Wishing you safety!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry

Reply Date: 2017/04/24

More Info

Crown lengthening is a dental procedure often performed to expose more of a tooth's structure for restorative purposes, such as placing a crown or bridge. It involves the surgical removal of gum tissue, bone, or both to allow for a better fit of the dental restoration. While this procedure can be beneficial, it can also lead to complications, including tooth mobility and pain, as you've experienced.

Tooth mobility after crown lengthening can be attributed to several factors:
1. Tissue Healing: After the procedure, the surrounding tissues, including the gums and bone, need time to heal. During this healing phase, it is not uncommon for teeth to feel slightly loose or mobile. This is often temporary and should resolve as the tissues stabilize.

2. Bone Loss: If the crown lengthening procedure involved significant removal of bone, it could lead to a reduction in the support structure for the tooth. Insufficient bone support can result in tooth mobility and discomfort.

3. Infection or Inflammation: Post-operative complications such as infection or inflammation can cause pain and mobility. If bacteria enter the surgical site, it can lead to periodontal issues, which may compromise the stability of the tooth.

4. Improper Bite Alignment: If the occlusion (bite) is not properly adjusted after the crown lengthening, it can lead to uneven pressure on the teeth, causing discomfort and mobility. Ensuring that the bite is balanced is crucial for the health of the teeth and surrounding structures.

5. Underlying Dental Issues: If there were pre-existing conditions, such as periodontal disease or previous trauma to the tooth, these could be exacerbated by the crown lengthening procedure, leading to increased mobility and pain.

Given that you mentioned the mobility and pain were not present before the crown lengthening, it is essential to monitor these symptoms closely. If the discomfort persists or worsens, it is advisable to return to your dentist for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend imaging studies, such as X-rays, to assess the bone levels and the health of the surrounding tissues.

In the meantime, here are some recommendations to manage your symptoms:
- Gentle Oral Hygiene: Continue to maintain good oral hygiene, but be gentle around the surgical site to avoid aggravating any inflammation.

- Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort, but consult your dentist before taking any medication.

- Soft Diet: Stick to a soft diet to minimize pressure on the affected teeth while they heal.

- Follow-Up Appointments: Keep all follow-up appointments with your dentist to ensure proper healing and address any concerns.

In conclusion, while some mobility and discomfort can be expected after crown lengthening, persistent symptoms warrant further investigation. Your dentist should provide clarity on the healing process and any necessary interventions to ensure the long-term success of your dental restorations. If you feel your concerns are not being adequately addressed, seeking a second opinion from another dental professional may provide additional insights and reassurance.

Similar Q&A

Dealing with Tooth Pain and Mobility After One-Sided Eating

I have been undergoing root canal treatment and had a crown lengthening procedure, so I have been using the other side of my mouth to eat for the past three to four months. Recently, I have noticed that one of my teeth feels slightly loose, and I experience pain when biting down ...

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry
Hello: It is recommended to return to the original clinic for a check-up to see if there is any fracture in the other tooth. If not, please be sure to adjust your eating habits by chewing slowly and thoroughly. You may switch to liquid foods (high-calorie, high-nutrition options ...

Understanding Crown Movement: Causes and Solutions for Dental Issues

I had a crown placed on my lower right molar, but the day after it was installed, I felt it was loose. I returned to the original clinic for a check-up, and the dentist assured me that the crown was securely bonded. However, I still feel like my tooth moves up and down when I bit...

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry
Dear Anonymous Miss: Hello! As mentioned, the periodontal condition of this tooth is not very good. Please communicate more with your doctor! Thank you! Wishing you well! Sincerely, Dr. Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry.

Understanding Tooth Mobility: Causes and Solutions for Dental Issues

When performing the up-and-down biting motion, if you place your hand next to your teeth and feel some movement, pressing on the teeth with your fingers may also cause slight soreness or pain. The teeth are already misaligned, and I'm unsure if this is the reason or if it co...

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
It is possible that there is inflammation or infection in the periodontal tissues surrounding the teeth, which could lead to bone resorption and gum recession, causing tooth mobility and sensitivity. It is recommended to consult a dentist for treatment.

Understanding Dental Issues: Diagnosing Oral Pain After Root Canal Treatment

I have a question: Several years ago, I had root canal treatment on my upper front teeth and received a crown. However, due to some issues, the tooth became loose, so I underwent another root canal treatment and received a temporary crown. During the process, one of the teeth fra...

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Tooth fracture led to a crown lengthening procedure to facilitate future crown restoration. However, two weeks post-surgery, there is swelling on the inside, which needs to be evaluated to determine if there is inflammation or infection in the surrounding gums, or if there is a c...