Why Are My New Crowns Burning My Gums?

Posted by AllSmiles

My six new temporary crowns on my top front teeth were so uncomfortable that my dentist removed the crowns. She completed fluoride treatment on the six teeth and prescribed an antibiotic that I took for a week. My bite was off when the final crowns were ready, so my dentist filed on all the crowns. I could feel the liquid flowing beneath the crowns whenever I drank something. My dentist removed the crowns, and I went back to temporary crowns. I’m scheduled to get the new crowns in two weeks, but the temporaries are uncomfortable, my gums burn, and my teeth are sensitive. I’m concerned that the final crowns will only continue the nightmare. I want to stop this process and see another dentist, but I don’t know where to start. Is there anything I can say to my dentist or recommend to her to get crowns that fit and don’t irritate my mouth? Thanks. Elise from New Orleans

Elise,

We recommend asking your dentist to temporarily cement the new crowns until you’re comfortable with them. This will give you time to adjust to them and ensure there aren’t any issues before they’re made permanent.

Why Do Your Gums Burn After Getting New Crowns?

If your gums burn after getting new crowns, you may have porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns that provoke a reaction. Ask your dentist for the exact composition of the metal, especially if it contains nickel. Your dentist should have a dental alloy certificate that specifies the metal alloy. You will need non-metal crowns if you have an allergy or sensitivity. Even if these are pure ceramic crowns, your dentist must determine why your gums are irritated.

Get a Second Opinion on Your New Dental Crowns

Based on what you’ve shared, we are concerned about your dentist’s approach to this case. Doing a complete smile of crowns on the front teeth is a complex procedure that requires specialized expertise. A dentist with experience in cosmetic dentistry would be ideal for this kind of work.

Also, while a dentist can adjust your bite, quality dental work minimizes the need for significant adjustments. Consider asking your dentist to cement the crowns temporarily, then seek a second opinion from another dentist. Remember, well-made crowns should feel so natural that you almost forget you have them.

Chandler, Arizona, dentists Dr. William Walden and Dr. Tyrel Beavers sponsor this post. They cater to patients who consider themselves dental cowards.