What can be a reason for a restoration to "feel high" to the patient?

A restoration can "feel high" to a patient primarily due to the overbuilding of the occlusal surface. When a restoration is finished, it should mirror the natural occlusion of the teeth, allowing for proper bite function. If the occlusal surface is inadvertently built up too high, it can interfere with the way the upper and lower teeth come together during normal chewing and speaking activities.

Patients may experience discomfort or pain when biting down if the restoration is not appropriately contoured to align with the existing occlusal plane of adjacent teeth. This misalignment can create pressure points and lead to an incorrect bite, making the restoration feel excessively elevated or "high."

In contrast, an adequate occlusion with adjacent teeth would indicate that the restoration aligns properly, contributing to a balanced bite without discomfort. Likewise, proper adjustment time involved in the restoration process suggests that the dentist or assistant dedicated sufficient attention to ensure the final occlusion felt comfortable for the patient. Lastly, using less viscous material generally refers to the flow and ease of application of restorative materials, which would not directly cause the sensation of a restoration feeling high in the mouth.