Congratulations on taking a big step towards improving your oral health, tooth structure, and bite with your new dental crown or filling! However, we know some patients may experience sensitivity around the area, which can feel uncomfortable. Don’t worry; this is common and usually resolves within one to two weeks. But, if it doesn’t, our Inverleith Dentalcare team wants to ensure you have all the information you need to feel comfortable and confident with your new restoration.
Give It One to Two Weeks
Following the placement of a crown or filling, it is common to experience a sensation of the restoration feeling “raised” for one to two weeks. This feeling can be attributed to several factors, such as your bite adjusting to the new restoration, minor swelling in the surrounding tissues, or a slight discrepancy in bite alignment. Additionally, it is essential to note that this sensation is typically mild and should subside over time without further intervention.
It’s important to note that the duration of this adjustment period can vary depending on the type and extent of the dental restoration you’ve undergone. In general, it’s recommended to avoid biting or chewing on hard or sticky foods during this period and to maintain good oral hygiene habits to promote healing and prevent complications.
Why a Good Bite Matters
If your bite is misaligned, the teeth may not fit together correctly, causing some teeth to exert more pressure than others. This can result in uneven wear and tear on the teeth, eventually leading to dental problems like decay, fractures, and tooth loss. In addition, a misaligned bite can cause you to grind your teeth unconsciously, leading to further dental issues. Teeth grinding can wear down your teeth’ enamel, making them more susceptible to decay and sensitivity. Moreover, it can cause jaw pain, headaches, and earaches, significantly affecting your quality of life.
To maintain proper oral health, prevent teeth grinding, and alleviate pain, it is essential to ensure that your bite is correctly aligned. Your dentist can help diagnose and treat any bite alignment issues, allowing you to improve your oral health and overall well-being.
When to Contact Your Dentist
If you experience a lingering discomfort or a “high” feeling in your dental crown or filling that persists beyond the initial two-week adjustment period, we recommend you schedule a follow-up review appointment with your practitioner. During this appointment, your dentist will thoroughly assess your bite and make any necessary adjustments to ensure the dental restoration fits snugly and comfortably in your mouth. Depending on your specific needs, this may involve modifying the shape or height of the repair. Our goal is to ensure your complete comfort and satisfaction with your dental restoration, so please don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist if you have any concerns.
Maintaining good communication with your dentist is crucial to ensure that any dental issues you may be experiencing are addressed promptly. We understand that even minor problems like an uneven crown or filling can significantly impact your daily life, making it challenging and uncomfortable to adjust to dental restoration. Therefore, we recommend contacting your dentist immediately if you are experiencing any persistent discomfort from your treatment.
At Inverleith Dentalcare, our experienced dentists are always ready to provide you with the best possible guidance and support. We believe in ensuring the optimal function of your crown or filling by addressing your concerns and making any necessary adjustments. Our dentists will take the time to understand your unique situation and work with you to develop a personalised treatment plan that meets your needs. So, don’t hesitate to contact us if you’re dealing with a minor discomfort or a more significant issue. We are committed to providing you with the highest quality of care and ensuring your complete satisfaction with your dental treatment.