Why Is My Dental Crown Too High? Seeking Solutions for Misalignment

I have braces, but my bite is misaligned, and the doctor wants me to adjust for a week first?

Hello, Doctor.
Today I had silver metal crowns placed at the clinic on my lower left first and second molars.
I informed the dentist at the time that the first molar crown was too high and causing issues with my bite, but he insisted that I should adapt for a week.
After returning home, I found that the high crown made it difficult to swallow saliva and caused me to speak with a lisp.
I went back to the clinic to request adjustments, but the dentist still insisted that I wait a week before returning for a follow-up.
He also mentioned that my first molar was too low to be adjusted further and that the crown could not be ground down anymore, as doing so might make it too thin.
Shouldn't the dentist have prioritized my occlusion when recommending the crown? Isn't the purpose of the crown to match the original shape of the patient's teeth? Why has this resulted in a significant malocclusion? When I asked him to readjust the crown, he only offered me two options: to adapt or to not have the crown at all.
Now that my teeth have already been ground down, what should I do if I choose not to have the crown? Can I request to have a different dentist handle this issue? I only agreed to the crown based on his recommendation, and now I am facing malocclusion due to his work, and he wants me to remove it?

Gina, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/01/24

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry

Hello, regarding the issue of ill-fitting dentures, I recommend that you communicate thoroughly with your original dentist.
I believe there will be a solution and options available.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2021/01/24

More Info

It sounds like you're experiencing significant discomfort and frustration with your recent dental crown placement. The issues you're facing, such as the crown being too high and causing difficulties with swallowing and speech, are not uncommon, but they certainly warrant attention and resolution.

When a dental crown is placed, it should ideally restore the tooth's function and fit seamlessly into your bite. If the crown is too high, it can lead to a misalignment in your bite, which can cause discomfort, pain, and even further dental issues over time. The fact that your dentist suggested you "adapt" for a week without addressing your concerns is concerning. Proper dental care should prioritize patient comfort and functionality, and it seems that your needs may not have been fully considered in this situation.

The reasons for a crown being too high can vary. It could be due to an error in the crown's fabrication, improper measurements taken during the fitting process, or even changes in the surrounding teeth after the crown was placed. It's essential for dentists to ensure that the crown aligns correctly with the opposing teeth to avoid any bite issues. If the crown is too high, it can lead to excessive wear on the opposing teeth, discomfort while chewing, and even jaw pain.

In your case, since the dentist has indicated that the crown cannot be adjusted further without risking its integrity, it may be necessary to seek a second opinion. You have every right to request a different dentist within the same practice or even consult another dental office. A fresh perspective may help identify the best course of action to alleviate your discomfort and address the misalignment.

When you visit a new dentist, be sure to communicate your concerns clearly. Explain the issues you've faced with the crown, including the discomfort and the dentist's response to your requests for adjustments. A good dentist will take the time to assess your situation thoroughly, possibly taking new impressions or X-rays to understand the alignment better. They should also be willing to discuss potential solutions, which may include remaking the crown or adjusting the bite to ensure proper alignment.

In the meantime, if you're experiencing significant discomfort, consider over-the-counter pain relief options, but consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medication. Additionally, try to avoid hard or sticky foods that may exacerbate the discomfort while you seek a resolution.

Ultimately, your dental health and comfort are paramount. If you feel that your concerns are not being addressed adequately, seeking a second opinion is not only reasonable but often necessary to ensure you receive the best care possible. Remember, you deserve a dental solution that works for you and restores your oral health without causing further issues.

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