Severe Pain After Deep Bite: Dental Issues and Solutions - Dentistry

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Severe pain after a deep bite, particularly when chewing on a specific tooth, can be a complex issue that often stems from multiple underlying dental problems. Given your situation, where you have been relying heavily on your right side for chewing after the extraction of a left molar, it is crucial to understand the potential causes and appropriate solutions.


Possible Causes of Pain
1. Occlusal Trauma: Since you mentioned that you have been chewing primarily on one side, the right molars may be experiencing excessive occlusal forces. This can lead to inflammation of the periodontal ligament, causing pain when biting down, especially on hard foods.

2. Dental Sensitivity: The sensitivity you are experiencing could be due to exposed dentin, which can occur if the enamel is worn down or if there are microfractures in the tooth. This sensitivity can be exacerbated by temperature changes or pressure from chewing.

3. Cracked Tooth Syndrome: If you have bitten down on hard objects, there is a possibility that you may have developed a crack in the tooth. This can lead to sharp pain during biting or chewing, and the pain may not be constant but rather triggered by specific movements.

4. Previous Dental Work: You mentioned that the tooth was previously filled. If the filling is not properly sealed or if there is secondary decay, this could lead to discomfort. Additionally, if the filling is too high, it may create an uneven bite, leading to further discomfort.

5. Pulpitis: If the pain is severe and persistent, it could indicate inflammation of the dental pulp, known as pulpitis. This condition often requires further intervention, such as root canal therapy.


Recommended Solutions
1. Dental Evaluation: It is essential to return to your dentist for a thorough evaluation. They may perform a clinical examination and take X-rays to assess the integrity of the tooth and surrounding structures. This will help identify any cracks, decay, or issues with the filling.

2. Adjusting the Bite: If your dentist finds that the filling is too high or that your bite is misaligned, they may recommend occlusal adjustments. This involves reshaping the biting surfaces of the teeth to ensure even distribution of forces during chewing.

3. Sensitivity Treatments: If sensitivity is a significant issue, your dentist may suggest using desensitizing toothpaste or applying fluoride varnish to help strengthen the enamel and reduce discomfort.

4. Root Canal Therapy: If pulpitis is diagnosed, root canal therapy may be necessary to remove the inflamed pulp and seal the tooth. This procedure can alleviate pain and save the tooth from extraction.

5. Consider a Specialist: If your dentist is unable to determine the cause of your pain or if the problem persists, you may be referred to an endodontist (a specialist in root canal treatments) or an oral surgeon for further evaluation.


Communication with Your Dentist
When discussing your symptoms with your dentist, it is helpful to be specific about the nature of your pain. Describe when the pain occurs, what activities trigger it, and any other symptoms you may be experiencing. This information will assist your dentist in making a more accurate diagnosis and developing an effective treatment plan.

In summary, severe pain after a deep bite can arise from various dental issues, including occlusal trauma, dental sensitivity, cracked teeth, or pulpitis. A comprehensive evaluation by your dentist is crucial to identify the underlying cause and determine the appropriate treatment to alleviate your discomfort.