I think my new crowns ruined my bite for life. My dentist shaved and burred my crown until I developed hives. I had an appointment last Friday about the hives on my lips and gums. I wonder if I am having an allergic reaction to the zirconia crowns. Do I need an allergist for this? I am asking about my bite and zirconia allergy. What can I do? Thanks for your help. – Emanuel from Morrisville, NC

Emanuel,

We understand your concerns and are sorry to hear about your frustrating experience.

Could Crowns Ruin Your Bite for Life?

When you find a dentist with advanced training in occlusion and bite, you will be relieved to know that your bite is not ruined for life. We recommend looking for dentists with in-depth study of occlusion and bite. When your bite is off, you feel the discomfort. It can also cause jaw pain, earaches, neck pain, and other TMJ symptoms.

You can schedule a second opinion because your dentist cannot adjust your bite. If you are distrustful about a new dentist trying to adjust your bite, you can schedule a consultation first to meet the dentist, ask questions, and explain your anxiety.

Could You Be Allergic to Zirconia Crowns?

It is possible to be allergic to zirconia crowns, but we have no confirmed cases reported. If a zirconia allergy is causing your reaction, you would have reacted when you got the crowns—before your dentist began grinding on them. You may be experiencing burning mouth syndrome, which can occur after stressful dental appointments.

Grinding down super-strength zirconia crowns is challenging. Feeling the pressure from the grinding repeatedly can increase anxiety for almost any patient.

We hope you get a lasting resolution that relieves your anxiety. Your hives may improve, too. If they do not, we suggest scheduling an appointment with your medical doctor.

Metairie cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune sponsors this post. Read details about how Dr. Delaune strives to provide some of the best dental care in Metairie.