I think that I am allergic to zirconia crowns. My daughter discouraged me from going to a holistic dentist and getting allergy testing. I regret it. I don’t have any known allergies, but sometimes I am sensitive to certain foods. I am skeptical about any artificial dental work in my mouth. Since I received the crowns in February, my tongue is dry and sticky, and my throat burns. I read online about other people who had a similar experience.

I took a clue from some of them and visited my doctor and an ENT. Neither doctor saw any pathology or signs that it’s something serious. My primary care doctor says it is probably burning mouth syndrome. Although my dentist says that it’s impossible to be allergic to zirconia, I am sure that I didn’t have a problem until I received the crowns. The whole experience with her was terrible. I thought she was going to drown me with all the water she used in the process. Somehow, I panicked, and water went up into my nose, and I started choking. My dentist let me take a 30-minute break before she finished. Did I mention that I keep clearing my throat, too? Doesn’t this sound like an allergy?

My dental work is not complete. I need two more crowns. And I would like someone to look at my new zirconia crowns because my bite seems off. But the allergy and discomfort concern me more. Thanks for your help. Lenny from AZ

Lenny,

Although allergic reactions to zirconia are rare, it’s not impossible to be allergic to any dental material. Any patient concerned about how they might react to dental materials is free to choose the dentist of their choice—including a holistic dentist—who can explain how you can receive testing.

Are You Allergic to Zirconia Crowns?

The only way to know if you are allergic to zirconia crowns is to get tested for it. The trauma you experienced while getting zirconia crowns might be causing burning mouth syndrome. Although many articles say that the cause of burning mouth syndrome is unknown, it is often linked to traumatic experiences. And you had a traumatic dental experience.

What Is Burning Mouth Syndrome?

Burning mouth syndrome is a condition that makes you feel burning, tingling, or scalding sensations in your mouth—primarily the tongue. It can also cause dry mouth and altered taste. Some experts believe that a medical condition or nerve damage can contribute to burning mouth syndrome.

Read more about burning mouth syndrome on the website of the National Institute and Dental and Craniofacial Research.

What’s Next?

Your dental work is incomplete. Sedation dentistry will help you continue on the road to oral health. If you don’t trust your dentist, you can schedule consultations with two holistic dentists with advanced cosmetic dentistry training. And take your dental records with you. Each dentist will explain what sedation levels they offer and how they will help correct your bite and complete your treatment.

Afterward, you can make an informed decision about who you want to complete your dental care.

We wish you the best.

San Antonio dentist Gilbert Tostado, DDS, sponsors this post.