My New Dental Crown or Filling Feels High. What Should I Do?

Getting a new dental crown or filling is a significant step towards improving your oral health, tooth structure, and bite. However, some patients feel sensitivity around the area, usually described as “high” or uneven. Though this is typically normal for one to two weeks following a procedure, our team at Integrated Dentalcare wants to ensure you are informed of what you can do if the issue hasn’t been resolved.  

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The Adjustment Period  

It is common to experience a feeling of a “raised” crown or filling one to two weeks following their placement. This sensation can occur due to various reasons, such as your bite adjusting to the new restoration, minor swelling in the surrounding tissues, or a slight discrepancy in bite alignment.  

Allowing your mouth some time to adjust after the dental restoration is essential. This means giving the tissues around the restored tooth a chance to settle and allowing your bite to adjust naturally as you become accustomed to the new dental work. In most cases, any discomfort or sensation of unevenness will resolve on its own without the need for any additional intervention.  

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The Importance of a Good Bite

Having an uneven bite can lead to discomfort when speaking, chewing, or biting. Therefore, it is essential to have a properly aligned bite for optimal oral function and comfort. You may experience jaw pain, headaches, difficulty chewing, and general discomfort if your bite is misaligned. Hence, ensuring that your bite is aligned to maintain oral health, prevent teeth grinding, and alleviate toothaches is essential.  

A well-aligned bite is not just about the aesthetics of your smile but also about preserving it for the long term. When your bite is balanced, chewing forces are distributed evenly, preventing excessive wear on specific teeth and contributing to the overall longevity of your dental restorations. Your dental restorations, whether crowns, fillings, or other treatments, also rely on a balanced bite for their durability. Even distribution of biting forces reduces the likelihood of damage, ensuring your dental work remains functional and intact over time.

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When to Visit Your Dentist

Suppose the feeling of a “high” dental crown or filling persists beyond the initial two-week adjustment period. In that case, we advise you to consult your practitioner to book a follow-up review appointment. At your visit, your dentist will assess your bite and make any necessary adjustments to ensure your comfort and satisfaction with the dental restoration.

Communicating with your dentist is essential to ensure that any issues you may be experiencing are resolved promptly. We understand that an uneven crown or filling can affect your day-to-day activities, making it more difficult and unpleasant to adjust to the dental restoration. Don’t hesitate to contact your dentist immediately if you are experiencing persistent discomfort from your treatment. Our dentists at Integrated Dentalcare want to ensure the optimal function of your crown or filling by providing guidance, addressing your concerns, and making necessary adjustments.

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What to Remember

As you navigate the initial weeks with your new dental crown or filling, remember that the adjustment period is a natural part of the process. Give your bite the time it needs to settle, understanding that this short-term discomfort is a small investment in your smiles’ long-term health, comfort, and resilience. Should any concerns persist, your dental team is here to guide you through the journey towards a comfortable and well-balanced bite.