Sensitivity after crown cementation is most likely due to which factor?

• A. Inadequate cement
• B. Microleakage
• C. Too much cement
• D. Reaction to crown material

Answer: (B)

Sensitivity after crown cementation is most likely attributed to microleakage. When a crown is placed, there should be a proper seal between the crown and the tooth structure. If there are gaps or imperfections at the margin where the crown meets the tooth, fluids and bacteria can penetrate these areas, leading to microleakage. This leakage can cause pulpal irritation and result in sensitivity for the patient, as the nerve endings in the pulp are exposed to stimuli that would normally be blocked if a proper seal was maintained.

In contrast, inadequate cement may lead to a lack of retention and could cause the crown to dislodge, but it does not directly cause sensitivity unless it leads to significant malalignment or exposure. Similarly, too much cement can create aesthetic issues or difficulty in adjusting the fit but would not typically lead to sensitivity if the crown is otherwise well-sealed. A reaction to the crown material may cause discomfort, but it is less common and more specific to certain materials or allergies rather than a general problem linked with sensitivity after cementation.