After my dentist placed six new crowns on my front teeth, the spacing changed, and my top teeth hit my bottom teeth uncomfortably. The crowns replaced old dental bonding. My dentist has adjusted the crowns four times. I’ve developed dry teeth, my teeth tap together like chattering, and my mouth burns. I’m afraid that my mouth is messed up, and the problems are irreversible. What can I expect based on my symptoms? Thanks. Terrell
Terrell,
Replacing successful composite bonding with six crowns seems like an overly aggressive treatment choice. An experienced and ethical cosmetic dentist would likely have simply redone the bonding. This immediately raises questions about your dentist’s judgment and experience with dental bonding.
When dealing with six front teeth, adhering to specific occlusal principles is critical. These include ensuring all teeth meet simultaneously (centric occlusion), providing anterior guidance, and often, canine protection, where your canine teeth guide your jaw when moving from side to side. The shapes of these teeth also play a major role in your speech. It sounds like a crucial aspect of this functionality hasn’t been properly addressed.
Referring you to a gum specialist seems irrelevant when the root issue appears to be your bite. While another dentist may have confirmed the crowns look good visually, a perfect-looking crown doesn’t mean the bite is correct.
Analyzing Your Oral Symptoms
You’ve described dry teeth, a burning sensation, a desire to tap your teeth, and a feeling that your teeth are longer. While I can’t address every symptom, your comment about your bite immediately after the crowns were placed is a significant concern. This indicates a problem with the treatment from the beginning. A correctly done set of crowns should result in a bite that feels completely natural and comfortable. Your current urge to tap your teeth consistently reinforces that your bite is off, and you may begin to experience TMJ issues.
Seek a Second Opinion
You should seek a second opinion from a dentist with advanced training in occlusion. This specialized knowledge isn’t typically covered extensively in general dental school. Dentists pursuing an in-depth study of complex bite issues attend post-graduate programs.
Consider consulting a dentist who is a graduate of one of these reputable institutions:
- The L.D. Pankey Institute
- The Dawson Academy
- Spear Education
- The Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies
Having your bite issues properly diagnosed and addressed could alleviate the burning and dry sensations, which often stem from stress, including that caused by a misaligned bite.
Dr. James Gavrilos, an accredited cosmetic dentist from Barrington, Illinois, sponsors this post. Read how he strives to give his patients the best dental care in Barrington.