Pain After Dental Crown: Causes & When to Call Your Dentist

Why a Crowned Tooth Hurts

Mild sensitivity to temperature for 1 to 2 weeks after crown placement is considered normal as the tooth adjusts to the new restoration. However, certain types of pain after a dental crown indicate problems that need professional attention. High bite occurs when the crown sits slightly too high, causing premature contact and pain when biting — this is the most common issue and is easily resolved with a quick bite adjustment at a qualified local dentist office. Persistent temperature sensitivity beyond 2 to 4 weeks may indicate the tooth nerve was stressed during preparation and may be developing irreversible inflammation.

When to Call Your Dentist

Throbbing or spontaneous pain that wakes you from sleep suggests the dental pulp has become infected or irreversibly inflamed and root canal therapy will likely be needed — this occurs in approximately 5 to 15 percent of crowned teeth depending on the depth of the original cavity. Sharp pain around the crown margin where it meets the gum may indicate cement washout, a gap between the crown and tooth, or gum irritation from crown contours. Contact a qualified local dentist if crown pain persists beyond 2 weeks, worsens rather than improves, involves spontaneous throbbing, or is accompanied by swelling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pain after a new crown normal?

Mild sensitivity for a few days to two weeks is normal. Sharp or worsening pain, or pain when biting, is not and needs an adjustment.

Why does my crown hurt when I bite down?

Usually the crown sits slightly high, so it takes extra force. A quick bite adjustment normally solves it.

Can a crowned tooth still need a root canal?

Yes. A crown protects the outside, but the nerve inside can still become inflamed or infected.

Finding a Dentist in Huntington Beach

If this sounds like what you are dealing with, the next step is an exam. A dentist can tell in minutes what guesswork cannot, and catching a problem early almost always means a smaller, cheaper fix. Tell us what you need using the form below and we will connect you with a licensed dentist serving Huntington Beach and the surrounding Orange County communities. It is free to use and there is no obligation.

Not sure where to start? Read how to choose a dentist, compare prices in our cost guides, or check signs you need emergency care if the pain is severe.