Why does my crowned tooth hurt when I eat or drink anything hot? I have five crowns. Two are implant crowns and three are on natural teeth. The three crowns on my natural teeth 18 to 25 years old. I didn’t get them all at once. I had a dental checkup and cleaning appointment two weeks ago. Three days away, I woke up to strong pain in one of the molar crowns. The pain is worse when I eat or drink something hot. The pain is worsening and seems to refer to the tooth next to it, which also has a crown. I called my dentist’s office, but she is out of the country for three weeks doing charity work. Should I see another dentist? Thanks. Ming
Ming,
Based on what you’ve described, it sounds like your tooth pulp is dying and causing intense pain. Several factors can cause tooth sensitivity, but if you’re experiencing intense, unprovoked pain, it’s a sign that the tooth is dying. This is a serious issue that requires root canal treatment. The fact that it’s sensitive to heat further confirms the need for a root canal treatment.
Dental crowns
A tooth infection signals an immune response, including white blood cells. The tissue inside a tooth swells, chokes, and dies. Sometimes the tissue emits gases. Warm foods or drinks increase the pressure inside a tooth. Anything cold usually gives you relief.
You’ve had your dental crown for at least 18 years, so a dentist would likely remove the crown and examine the tooth and the one next to it because it’s symptomatic.
What Causes Pain in a Tooth with a Crown?
Several factors can cause pain in a tooth with a crown, including decay beneath the crown from a leaky margin. Also, undetected root surface exposure can irritate the tooth and lead to infection.
Your pain will increase until the tooth is treated. If your dentist is not available, schedule an appointment with another dentist in the practice or elsewhere.
Dr. Brian LeSage, a Beverly Hills accredited Fellow of cosmetic dentistry, sponsors this post.