Is It Painful to Get a Crown Replaced?

October 25, 2024  |  by James Sampson  |  Blog
what causes tooth decay?

Replacing a crown generally involves some level of discomfort, but it should not be excessively painful. The procedure is usually carried out with the use of local anesthesia to numb the area, ensuring minimal pain.

You may feel some pressure or mild discomfort as the dentist prepares the tooth and removes the old crown. Additionally, there might be sensitivity or soreness in the treated area after the anesthesia wears off.

If you experience any pain during the crown replacement or if the discomfort worsens, it is important to inform your dentist. The Dentist can make any necessary adjustments or provide appropriate pain relief measures.

When replacing a crown, the process typically involves the following steps:

  1. Evaluation: The dentist will examine the condition of the existing crown and the underlying tooth structure. They will assess whether a replacement is necessary and discuss the options with you.
  2. Numbing the area: Local anesthesia is administered to ensure you are comfortable during the procedure. The dentist will wait for the anesthesia to take effect before proceeding.
  3. Removal of the old crown: Using dental tools, the dentist will carefully remove the old crown from the tooth. This may involve cutting and removing any cement or adhesive that was used to secure the crown in place.
  4. Impression: An impression of the prepared tooth is taken to create a custom-made crown that matches the shape and alignment of your other teeth. The impression may be done using a putty-like material or digitally scanned.
  5. Temporary crown: While waiting for the permanent crown to be created, a temporary crown may be placed to protect the prepared tooth. Temporary crowns are typically made from acrylic or composite materials and are less durable than the final crown.
  6. Crown placement: Once the permanent crown is ready, you will return to the dentist’s office for its placement. The dentist will remove the temporary crown, check the fit and color of the new crown, and make any necessary adjustments. Once satisfied, the permanent crown is bonded or cemented onto the tooth.
  7. Bite adjustment and polishing: The dentist will ensure that your bite is properly aligned with the new crown. They may make minor adjustments to ensure a comfortable and functional bite. Finally, the crown is polished to give it a smooth and natural appearance.

Throughout the process, you may experience some discomfort or pressure, but it should not be overly painful. If you have concerns about pain or if you experience significant discomfort during or after the procedure, it’s important to communicate with your dentist so that they can address your needs.  Schedule an appointment with Sampson Dentistry if you are in need of a crown.

Schedule Your Appointment Online!

Does Cold Temperatures In Hoover Alabama Make My Teeth Hurt?

September 11, 2024  |  by James Sampson  |  Blog
Does Cold Temperatures Make My Teeth Hurt?

Does cold temperatures in Hoover Alabama make my teeth hurt?  Yes, cold temperatures can make your teeth hurt. In response to extreme heat and cold, your teeth expand and contract. Over time, this can lead to cracks in your teeth, exposing the vulnerable microscopic tubes beneath your enamel. This is the same tooth pain you feel because of cavities, gum disease, and other bad oral habits. Therefore, any problems with your enamel or gums, such as periodontal disease, could leave you vulnerable to cold temperature pain.

Weather sensitivity can occur regardless of how well you care for your teeth, but you’re at greater risk if you don’t practice good oral hygiene and live in an area that has extreme temperature swings.

To minimize sensitivity, you should learn about the common causes for sensitive teeth and what you should do when you notice pain because of the cold temperature.

Individuals often wear down their enamel or suffer from receding gums and tooth sensitivity because of one of the following reasons:

  • Periodontal disease: Diseases of the gums can expose the dentin and cause sensitivity. Gingivitis is one of the earliest stages of periodontal disease.
  • Brushing too hard: You may think that you need to bear down hard to remove surface stains, but brushing with too much force can start to wear down your enamel.
  • Grinding: Some individuals may clench or grind their teeth in their sleep. This can wear down tooth enamel and lead to sensitivity.
  • Tooth decay: Sensitivity to cold is an early sign of an undetected tooth decay problem. If you start to experience tooth pain, go see a dentist.
  • Tooth whitening applications: Have you started using a new tooth-whitening agent? The ingredients that make your teeth whiter may strip past surface stains and start wearing down your enamel. If the agent starts hurting your teeth, stop the treatment and consult with your dentist.
  • Acidic drinks: Sodas, coffee, tea, and other drinks with a high concentration of acid, such as juices, can erode your teeth and expose the dentin layer.
  • bad lifestyle habits: Other bad oral health habits, such as using tobacco products or not brushing or flossing properly, can cause your gums to recede. When this happens, the dentin at the base of the gums is exposed and can lead to temperature-sensitive teeth.

Possible Solutions for Sensitive Teeth

  • A fluoride application: Fluoride strengthens the enamel and thus prevents sensitivity because of exposed dentin.
  • Covering root surfaces: A dentist can apply a sealant to fix problems with receding gums.
  • Mouth guards: If you grind your teeth, a dentist can make a mouth guard to prevent you from damaging your teeth in your sleep.
  • Root canal procedure: This is recommended to fix issues with deep decay or a cracked or chipped tooth.