How do I Tell If a Dental Crown Is Too Tall?

You've just finished having a new crown or filling placed by your dentist. Your mouth, cheeks and lips are completely numb. Finally, when the numbness wears off; you take your first bite of food and notice the bite feels strange. Chances are good that you have a high spot on your new restoration. If a high spot is left untreated, it may causing bruising to the periodontal ligament that surrounds the root of your tooth, This can quickly turn into a toothache. Simple steps can be taken to determine if your tooth is hitting high.

Things You'll Need

• Double-sided carbon paper
• Petroleum jelly
• Cotton swab

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Instructions

• 1

  Break off a thin strip of double-sided carbon paper. Using your fingers, gently cover both sides of the paper with a thin layer of petroleum jelly.

• 2

  Rinse your mouth thoroughly. Dry the biting surface of the tooth and all adjacent teeth with the tip of a cotton swab. Make sure the opposing tooth is also dry.

• 3

  Place the carbon paper directly onto the tooth. Bite gently in an up and down motion. Slowly grind your teeth back and forth. Remove the carbon paper.

• 4

  Examine the tooth. Locate any areas where the carbon markings seem to appear heavier than those surrounding it. Heavier markings indicate that that portion of the tooth is taking the brunt of the biting force. Call your dentist and schedule an appointment to have a quick adjustment done.