Why Food Gets Stuck After Root Canal and Crown Treatment

After root canal treatment, food particles are likely to get stuck between the teeth?

Hello Doctor, I am a patient of #177426.
I apologize for not explaining clearly at that time.
Currently, the condition of my teeth is as follows: there is a wisdom tooth in the lower right that is growing at a normal angle and has no cavities.
Next to the wisdom tooth is a molar that has undergone "microscopic" root canal treatment and has had a crown placed within the past month.
Adjacent to this molar is another molar that had root canal treatment and a crown placed several years ago.

I would like to ask the doctor again, because when the crown was placed, I had a temporary crown that did not trap food when chewing.
However, after the permanent crown was placed, I frequently find food getting stuck in the gums (between the two molars, not the wisdom tooth), and I need to use dental floss very deeply to remove the debris, which always results in bleeding.
I later returned to the clinic to consult with the same doctor who placed the crown, but he said that the crown was placed normally, and the X-ray showed no issues, only that the gums were swollen.
He prescribed pain medication and advised me to maintain good oral hygiene.
However, this issue has persisted for several weeks.
I have been flossing deep into the gums, and it always causes bleeding.
Although I feel that the gum swelling and pain have subsided, the problem of food getting trapped has not been resolved, and it still gets stuck deep down.
I would like to ask the doctor on this forum if the crown placement might not be perfect? How should I resolve this issue?

Liao Xiansheng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/01/14

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

Because the crowns of the two molars are installed separately (at different times), there is a gap between the two crowns.
However, if you maintain proper oral hygiene and prevent plaque accumulation in the interproximal area, inflammation and bleeding in that area should not occur easily.
If bleeding persists, it is advisable to return for a follow-up appointment with your dentist for a thorough examination.
Dr.
Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2022/01/14

More Info

After undergoing root canal treatment and receiving a crown, it is not uncommon for patients to experience issues with food getting stuck between their teeth, particularly around the crown area. This can be attributed to several factors related to the dental work performed, as well as the natural anatomy of the mouth.

Firstly, the fit of the crown is crucial. A well-fitted crown should seamlessly integrate with the adjacent teeth and gums. If the crown is slightly too high or not contoured properly, it can create spaces that trap food particles. This can lead to discomfort and the need for frequent cleaning with dental floss, which, as you've experienced, can sometimes result in bleeding if the gums are inflamed or sensitive.

Secondly, the presence of temporary crowns during the treatment process can also contribute to this issue. Temporary crowns are designed to protect the tooth while the permanent crown is being made, but they may not fit as snugly as the final product. Once the permanent crown is placed, if it does not fit perfectly, it can create gaps that allow food to become lodged.

Another factor to consider is the health of your gums. If your gums are swollen or inflamed, they may be more susceptible to bleeding when you floss. This inflammation can be caused by plaque buildup, which is more likely to occur if food is getting stuck and not being adequately cleaned away. Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential, especially after dental procedures. Regular brushing and flossing, along with the use of an antibacterial mouthwash, can help reduce inflammation and prevent food from getting trapped.

If the problem persists, it may be worth revisiting your dentist for a follow-up examination. They can assess the fit of the crown and determine if any adjustments are necessary. Sometimes, a simple reshaping of the crown or the adjacent teeth can alleviate the issue. Additionally, your dentist may recommend a professional cleaning to remove any plaque buildup that could be contributing to the problem.

In the meantime, there are a few strategies you can employ to manage the situation. Using a water flosser can be an effective way to dislodge food particles without causing trauma to your gums. Additionally, you might consider using a softer toothbrush or a toothbrush designed for sensitive gums to minimize irritation while cleaning.

In summary, food getting stuck after root canal and crown treatment can be due to the fit of the crown, the health of your gums, and the effectiveness of your oral hygiene routine. If the issue continues, consulting with your dentist for further evaluation and possible adjustments is advisable. They can provide tailored solutions to ensure your dental work is functioning optimally and that your oral health is maintained.

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