Pain When Eating Hot Foods After Getting Fixed Dentures: What to Do?

After getting fixed dentures, eating hot food can be painful?

Hello Dr.
Huang, I recently had a fixed dental prosthesis installed, but I experience pain and a sharp sensation when biting into hot foods or soups.
It feels like the pain radiates from the outside to the inside of the gums.
However, I do not experience this issue with regular cold or cool foods, although there is still a slight discomfort.
(I did not have these temperature sensitivity issues when I was wearing the temporary crown.) Dr.
Huang, do I need to have the prosthesis remade? Thank you.

Xiao Mi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/02

Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry

Hello, if the fixed prosthesis is still in the trial phase, it can be removed, and a desensitizing agent can be applied to the abutment tooth before temporarily re-fixing it for observation.
If pain persists, then root canal treatment should be performed.
If it is already fixed (the materials used for fixation can sometimes irritate the prepared abutment tooth, leading to pulp congestion or even pulpitis), then the only options are to take some anti-inflammatory medication and observe, or to directly access the abutment tooth for root canal treatment.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Chih-Cheng Huang, Director of Dentistry, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2016/02/02

More Info

Experiencing pain when consuming hot foods after getting fixed dentures can be concerning and uncomfortable. It’s essential to understand the potential causes of this discomfort and the appropriate steps to take.
Firstly, the pain you are experiencing could be attributed to several factors related to the fixed dentures. One common reason for discomfort when eating hot foods is the thermal sensitivity of the dental materials used in the dentures. Some materials may expand or contract with temperature changes, leading to discomfort or pain. Additionally, if the denture is not properly fitted, it may cause pressure points on the gums or the underlying tooth structure, resulting in pain when exposed to hot substances.

Another possibility is that the pain could be related to the underlying tooth structure or the gums. If the denture is placed over a tooth that has previously undergone treatment (such as a root canal), the tooth may still be sensitive to temperature changes. This sensitivity can be exacerbated if there is inflammation in the surrounding gum tissue or if the tooth's nerve is still reactive.

If you are experiencing a sharp or stabbing pain that radiates from the denture to the gums, it may indicate that the denture is causing irritation or inflammation in the gum tissue. This could be due to improper fitting, which may require adjustments by your dentist. In some cases, if the denture is too tight or too loose, it can lead to discomfort when chewing or when exposed to hot foods.

It’s also worth noting that if you had temporary dentures before the fixed ones, your mouth may have adjusted to the temporary ones, and the fixed dentures may feel different. The transition from temporary to permanent dentures can sometimes lead to a period of adjustment where discomfort is common.

In terms of what to do next, it is advisable to return to your dentist for a thorough examination. They may suggest the following steps:
1. Adjustment of the Denture: Your dentist can check the fit of the denture and make necessary adjustments to alleviate pressure points that may be causing discomfort.

2. Sensitivity Treatment: If the pain is due to sensitivity, your dentist may recommend applying a desensitizing agent to the affected area or suggest using toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth.

3. Observation: If the discomfort is mild and manageable, your dentist may suggest monitoring the situation for a short period to see if the pain resolves on its own as your mouth adjusts to the new dentures.

4. Further Investigation: If the pain persists, further investigation may be necessary to rule out any underlying issues, such as gum disease or problems with the tooth structure beneath the denture.

5. Pain Management: In the meantime, you may consider over-the-counter pain relief medications to manage discomfort, but it’s essential to consult with your dentist before taking any medication.

In conclusion, while it may not necessarily mean that you need to have the dentures remade, it is crucial to address the discomfort with your dentist. They can provide a tailored solution based on the specific cause of your pain. Remember, proper communication with your dental care provider is key to ensuring your comfort and the longevity of your fixed dentures.

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