When dental crowns are cemented into place, the result is seamless, looking like a natural, perfectly healthy tooth. The crown should be perfectly comfortable, and any mild irritation from the actual procedure will quickly subside. So, if you were to experience discomfort while chewing in the weeks (and even months) after the crown has been fitted, does it mean that there's a problem with the crown? Does your jaw just need more time to adjust, or should you have a dentist take a look at the crown?

The Alignment of Your Teeth

You might notice a sense of discomfort when chewing, as though your jaw is straining. That's because it is. Although rare, dental crowns can sometimes lead to a dental malocclusion, which is when your teeth aren't correctly aligned when closed. How can this happen?

The Vertical Dimension of Your Crown

Although the manufacturing and placement of a dental crown are carried out with the utmost precision, however, if the vertical dimension (its overall height) of the crown is even just a fraction too high, your entire bite can feel off. The height of the crown has resulted in premature contact, which is when one or more of your teeth make contact with their corresponding upper or lower teeth before the other teeth in your mouth. It's not hugely unpleasant, but it can be slightly uncomfortable. And it's not something you have to put up with.

Have the Crown Inspected

It's not an issue that will correct itself, so a wait-and-see approach isn't going to help. Having said that, it's not as though it will get any worse if you wait. If you can, make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. It's not a dental emergency, but the crown will need to be inspected. 

What Your Dentist Will Do

It's just a matter of your dentist making some very minor alterations to the crown. In many cases, the biting surface of the crown can be leveled off to achieve the necessary alignment of your bite. Occasionally, the crown will need to be removed and replaced. This is an inconvenience, but the problem can be quickly solved, so it's best to see your dentist soon.

Your new dental crown is going to look great, but if it doesn't feel great, it might be ever so slightly too high. This is not a major problem, but you must have the crown inspected so the necessary alterations can be made. Learn more about dental crowns by contacting a local dentist.