the Connection Between Dental Crowns and Tongue Discomfort - Dentistry

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Understanding the connection between dental crowns and tongue discomfort can be quite complex, especially after undergoing procedures like root canal therapy and crown placement. It’s important to recognize that any dental work, particularly involving crowns, can lead to changes in how your mouth feels and functions.
When you have dental crowns placed, they are designed to restore the shape, size, and function of your teeth. However, if the crowns are not perfectly aligned with your bite, they can create pressure points that may lead to discomfort in your tongue and surrounding tissues. This is particularly true if the crowns are slightly too high, as you experienced initially. When the crowns are too high, they can cause your tongue to adjust its position, leading to discomfort or a sensation of pressure at the base of the tongue or throat.

After your dentist adjusted the height of the crowns, it’s understandable that you felt some improvement in the acid sensation but then experienced a new discomfort. This could be due to several factors:
1. Adjustment Period: After any dental work, there is often an adjustment period where your mouth, including your tongue, needs to adapt to the new structure. This can take time, and during this period, you may experience discomfort as your tongue and other oral tissues adjust.

2. Bite Alignment: If your bite is not properly aligned, it can lead to uneven pressure distribution when you chew or speak. This can cause your tongue to feel like it is being pushed against the roof of your mouth or your throat, leading to discomfort.
3. Muscle Tension: Sometimes, the discomfort can be exacerbated by muscle tension in the tongue and jaw. If you are subconsciously adjusting your tongue position to accommodate the crowns, this can lead to muscle fatigue and discomfort.

4. Sensitivity: After dental procedures, it’s common for the surrounding tissues, including the tongue, to be more sensitive. This sensitivity can manifest as discomfort, especially if there are any rough edges on the crowns or if they are not polished smoothly.

To address your concerns and improve your comfort, consider the following steps:
- Communicate with Your Dentist: It's crucial to have an open dialogue with your dentist about your symptoms. Since your dentist mentioned they haven't encountered this situation before, providing detailed feedback about your discomfort can help them understand your experience better. They may need to reassess the crowns for any adjustments or rough spots that could be contributing to your discomfort.

- Seek a Second Opinion: If your current dentist is unable to provide a satisfactory solution, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion from another dental professional. They might have different insights or suggestions for managing your discomfort.

- Oral Hygiene: Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is essential, especially after dental work. Ensure that you are brushing and flossing regularly to prevent any additional irritation or infection that could exacerbate your symptoms.

- Tongue Exercises: Gentle tongue exercises may help alleviate some discomfort. Moving your tongue in different directions and practicing relaxation techniques can help reduce tension.

- Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-up appointments with your dentist can help monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your crowns or bite.

In summary, while discomfort after dental crown placement can be frustrating, it is often manageable with proper communication and care. Your dentist is your best resource for addressing these concerns, so don't hesitate to reach out to them for further evaluation and support.