After getting a new crown, many of our patients wonder if the crown should be sensitive to cold liquids. Is it common to have a shooting pain in the tooth or root when you drink something very cold shortly after getting a crown put on? Tooth sensitivity after a crown is a very popular topic. Read below to find out more.
Teeth sensitivity to cold liquids is fairly common. It’s so common that approximately 40 million adults in the United States experience it at some point. Teeth sensitivity after drinking cold liquids usually occurs suddenly and can be classified as mild, moderate, or severe.
We recently received a phone call from a patient who said, “Ever since I’ve had a crown put in, my tooth has been sensitive to cold liquids like iced water and soda. Why is that?” We told her that there are a number of reasons this may be occurring. Her tooth may be sensitive to cold because her bite is high, she grinds or clenches her teeth, there is excessive cement in her mouth, or nerve damage. There may also be a minor recession of gum tissue, which exposes the edge of the root.
While crown sensitivity to cold liquids can happen, it should only occur for a few weeks after you receive your crown. If you are experiencing it for more than few weeks, it’s a good idea to visit the dentist. They will likely adjust your crown and resolve the problem. If the dentist finds that the sensitivity is coming from another tooth, an alternative treatment will be recommended. As the top dental practice in Richmond, Virginia we will make a professional opinion on each individual case. It is impossible to diagnose a health concern over the phone so we will set up an appointment for you to visit our dental spa and speak to one of our experienced dentists.
Crowns are the ideal choice for many patients because they blend in well with their natural teeth and can improve their smile and self-confidence. They are also very durable and can last for years. Don’t let the chance of a bit of tooth sensitivity to cold liquids for a short while stop you from receiving a crown.
Liquids to Drink After Getting a Crown
After getting a crown, it is common for the tooth to be sensitive for a few days. During this time, it is best to avoid very hot or cold drinks as well as hard, crunchy or sticky foods. Instead, you can try the following drinks that are generally considered to be gentle on sensitive teeth:
Room temperature water: Drinking water at room temperature can be soothing and help to reduce sensitivity. Avoid very cold or very hot water as these temperatures can aggravate sensitivity.
Milk: Milk is a good source of calcium and vitamin D, which can help to support healthy teeth and bones. It is also a neutral pH beverage, which means it is not acidic and will not erode tooth enamel.
Herbal tea: Herbal tea can be a good alternative to hot beverages that contain caffeine, such as coffee and black tea, which can be more likely to trigger sensitivity. Chamomile and peppermint teas are good options as they are known for their soothing properties.
Smoothies: Smoothies can be a good way to get in nutrients and vitamins, while also being gentle on the teeth. Be sure to avoid adding very cold or frozen ingredients, as this can aggravate sensitivity.
Coconut water: Coconut water is a natural source of electrolytes and can be a good way to rehydrate after dental treatment. It is also low in sugar and acidity, making it a gentle choice for sensitive teeth.
It is important to note that if your sensitivity persists or becomes worse, you should contact your dentist to rule out any potential issues with your crown or underlying teeth.
Contact River Run Dental
If you’d like more on dental crowns and how they affect tooth sensitivity, don’t hesitate to contact our Richmond, VA office. Feel free to call us at (804) 262-1060 to schedule an appointment. We look forward to hearing from you!