How Long Does Tooth Pain Last After Getting a Crown?
After getting a dental crown, it’s normal to wonder how long any discomfort or pain might last. A crown is a cap placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, strength and function. Because your tooth and gums have just gone through a procedure, some mild pain or sensitivity is common, especially in the first few days.
Right after the crown is placed, you might feel pressure or tenderness when chewing. Your gums may also feel sore as they adjust to the new crown. This is part of the healing process and usually doesn’t mean something is wrong.
What’s Normal After a Crown
Most people experience some sensitivity or mild discomfort in the first few days. This can include:
Mild sensitivity to hot or cold foods
Slight soreness in the gums around the crowned tooth
Tenderness or mild discomfort when biting down
This type of discomfort is often mild and gradually improves as your mouth gets used to the crown. For many, it fades within the first week as the nerves and tissues settle.
Typical Pain Timeline
While every mouth is different, here’s a general idea of what people might experience after a crown:
First 1–3 days: Mild soreness or sensitivity is common as your mouth adjusts.
Up to 7 days: Sensitivity and discomfort continue to decrease.
Around 1–2 weeks: Gums and bite usually feel more settled and natural.
If the pain is mild and decreasing over time, it’s usually part of normal healing.
When Pain Might Last Longer
Sometimes discomfort can last beyond a week or become more noticeable. This may happen if:
The dental crown doesn’t fit perfectly and rubs or feels “high” when you bite
There is irritation or inflammation of the gum tissue
The nerve inside the tooth was already sensitive before the crown
You grind or clench your teeth at night
These situations can make sensitivity last a little longer, but most can be adjusted or resolved by your dentist.
When to Talk to Your Dentist
Pain that gets worse instead of better, pain that continues beyond two weeks, or pain that includes swelling, bad taste, or fever should be checked by a professional. A prolonged or sharp pain might indicate a bite issue, nerve irritation, or other complications that need attention.
Tips to Ease Discomfort
To help reduce soreness after a crown:
Eat soft, lukewarm foods for the first couple of days
Avoid very hard or sticky foods while sensitivity is present
Practice gentle brushing and flossing around the crown
Take over‑the‑counter pain relief if advised by your dentist
Tooth pain after getting a crown is common and usually temporary. Most people find that discomfort is mild and fades within a week as their mouth adjusts. However, if pain lingers beyond two weeks or becomes intense, it’s always best to reach out to your dentist for reassurance and possible adjustments.