Why Does a Crowned Tooth Hurt?
You got a crown to fix a damaged or decayed tooth — so why does it still hurt?
Many patients assume that once a tooth is crowned, pain should be gone for good. While dental crowns protect and strengthen your teeth, they don’t make them invincible.
If you’re feeling discomfort or sensitivity around a crowned tooth, it’s important to find out what’s causing it.
At Main Street Dental Center in Collegeville, PA, Dr. Anjelika Marti helps patients identify and treat the root cause of post-crown pain — restoring comfort, confidence, and peace of mind.
1. Common Reasons for Tooth Pain Under a Crown
Not all pain means your crown has failed. Sometimes the issue lies deeper.
Tooth Decay Beneath the Crown
Even though the crown covers your tooth, decay can still form underneath — especially if bacteria sneak in through tiny gaps or worn edges.
Over time, this can irritate the nerve or cause infection.
👉 Solution: Dr. Marti can remove the crown, clean the decay, and restore the tooth with a new, secure crown.
2. Inflamed or Infected Nerve (Root Canal Issue)
If your tooth was never root canal–treated before the crown, the nerve inside may still be alive — and sometimes it becomes inflamed after restorative work.
This can cause sharp, lingering pain, especially when biting or with temperature changes.
👉 Solution: A root canal treatment can save the tooth by removing the infected tissue and relieving pressure.
3. Gum Irritation or Recession Around the Crown
If the gums around your crown are sore, swollen, or bleed easily, you might have gingivitis or gum recession.
When gums recede, the root surface becomes exposed and sensitive.
👉 Solution: A professional dental cleaning or gum therapy can reduce inflammation and protect the area.
4. Crown Damage or Poor Fit
Sometimes a crown may chip, crack, or loosen over time, especially if you grind your teeth or bite hard foods.
Even a slight misalignment can cause uneven bite pressure, leading to jaw discomfort or pain when chewing.
👉 Solution: The dentist will evaluate your bite and replace or adjust the crown for proper fit and comfort.
5. Sinus Pressure or TMJ-Related Pain
Upper molar crowns can sometimes hurt due to sinus inflammation, since the roots sit close to sinus cavities.
Jaw tension or TMJ strain can also mimic dental pain.
👉 Solution: Once dental issues are ruled out, sinus care or bite adjustments can help relieve this type of discomfort.
2. How We Diagnose Tooth Pain Under a Crown
At Main Street Dental Center, we don’t guess — we diagnose precisely.
Here’s what you can expect during your visit:
Comprehensive exam: checking your crown, gums, and bite.
Digital X-rays: to look for decay, infection, or bone loss.
Thermal or percussion tests: to evaluate nerve health.
Bite analysis: ensuring the crown fits properly and isn’t hitting too hard.
Our advanced diagnostic tools help us find the true source of pain — often in just one appointment.
3. What to Do at Home Before Your Appointment
If you’re in pain, here are a few steps to ease symptoms temporarily:
Rinse gently with warm salt water.
Avoid chewing on the affected side.
Take over-the-counter pain relief (like ibuprofen) if safe for you.
Apply a cold compress to reduce inflammation.
Avoid sticky or hard foods that can pull or stress your crown.
⚠️ If the pain is severe, throbbing, or accompanied by swelling, contact your dentist right away — it may indicate infection that requires immediate treatment.
4. Treatment Options for a Painful Crowned Tooth
Depending on what we find, treatment may include:
| Cause | Treatment |
|---|---|
| Decay under crown | Crown removal, cavity cleaning, new crown placement |
| Infected nerve | Root canal treatment and new crown |
| Gum irritation | Deep cleaning or gum therapy |
| Loose crown | Crown re-cementation or replacement |
| Cracked crown | Custom crown replacement with strong ceramic materials |
Every case is unique, which is why we create personalized treatment plans that prioritize comfort and long-term results.
5. How to Prevent Future Pain or Complications
Prevention goes a long way in maintaining a healthy crown:
Keep up with routine checkups (every 6 months).
Brush and floss carefully around the crown’s edges.
Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste.
If you grind your teeth, consider a custom nightguard.
Avoid biting on hard foods like ice or nuts.
Regular visits to Main Street Dental Center help detect early issues — saving you time, money, and discomfort later.
6. When to Call Your Dentist
You should contact your dentist right away if you experience:
Sharp or persistent pain
Swelling or pimple-like bumps near the crown
Pain when biting or chewing
Bad taste or odor (possible infection)
At Main Street Dental Center, we offer emergency appointments to quickly treat dental pain and prevent further complications.
7. Why Patients in Collegeville Trust Main Street Dental Center
Comprehensive Care: From dental crowns and fillings to implants and emergency treatment — all under one roof.
Advanced Technology: Digital X-rays and precise diagnostics.
Gentle Approach: We prioritize comfort and communication at every visit.
Local Expertise: Proudly serving patients across Collegeville, Trappe, Royersford, and Skippack.
“Our goal is to help you enjoy lasting comfort and confidence — one smile at a time.” — Dr. Anjelika Marti, DMD, MS
Conclusion: Don’t Ignore Tooth Pain Under a Crown
A crown is meant to protect your tooth — not cause pain.
If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and schedule a visit with your dentist.
🦷 Main Street Dental Center in Collegeville, PA can diagnose the problem and provide the right solution — from a simple bite adjustment to advanced root canal therapy.
📞 Call us today or request an appointment online to find relief and protect your smile.
Your Smile, Our Passion
Personalized, gentle dental care for the whole family — right here on Main Street.
