How can I address tooth sensitivity after getting a dental crown?

Doctor's Answer

Some post-operative sensitivity after crown preparation or cementation on a vital tooth (containing a living pulp or nerve) can be expected.

This tends to happen if there was previous decay or an old filling that is close to the pulp. The vibrations from cleaning out the decay or removing the old filling can cause transient pulpal irritation which can result in cold sensitivity.

If the sensitivity occurs after cementation of the crown, there could be cement washout from underneath or some plaque trapped underneath the crown during cementation. Plaque CAN and commonly does form underneath apparently well-fitting temporary crowns.

If the pulp is able to recover, then the symptoms eventually clear without further treatment.

If the symptoms persist or become worse, then a root canal treatment may eventually be needed.

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