The second molar on the left side of the mandible has a problem?
Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about my current situation with my wisdom teeth.
I am in the process of getting my wisdom teeth, and my lower jaw has always been slightly misaligned.
My upper teeth are also slightly tilted to the right side (the teeth on the right side of my upper jaw are lower than those on the left side), and there is some crowding.
When I smile, my gums are not visible, and I can only bite down on the left side of my molars.
When eating or pronouncing sounds like "zhi", "chi", "shi", "ri", "ji", "qi", and "x", I can only use the left side to avoid air escaping, as the right side cannot properly occlude.
Since I turned 18, I have unconsciously been licking the second molar on the left side of my lower jaw.
Each time I do this, it makes a sound like "dia dia," but when I touch it with my hand, it does not move, suggesting a possible root issue.
I wonder if this habit of licking the left second molar and the accompanying sound is related to my wisdom teeth and the misalignment of my lower jaw.
I previously visited a dentist and had X-rays taken, which showed that my two lower wisdom teeth are misaligned.
The right wisdom tooth has been extracted, but the left one has not erupted yet.
Could the pressure from the left wisdom tooth be causing issues with my left second molar?
My left lower jaw does feel tighter, and when I open my mouth, the bone seems to shift.
I would appreciate your help in understanding this, as the discomfort from my left second molar has been bothering me for a long time.
I am worried that my habit of licking it might be causing it to shift or that the unerupted wisdom tooth is pressing on it, leading to the possibility of it falling out one day.
Thank you, Doctor.
Ms. Wu, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/28
Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry
Hello, based on what you mentioned, since I haven't seen the X-ray and have not physically examined you, I hope you can visit a hospital or clinic specializing in temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
Avoid chewing on the left side for extended periods, as distributing the force can help alleviate the situation.
Habitually licking it should not cause it to fall off.
Please take the time to visit a hospital with a TMJ department for a proper diagnosis.
Thank you.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Huang Chih-Cheng, Director of Dentistry, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.
Reply Date: 2016/04/28
More Info
Understanding the issues surrounding your lower left second molar during the growth of your wisdom teeth involves several interconnected factors, including dental alignment, the eruption of wisdom teeth, and potential impacts on your oral health.
From your description, it seems that you have a pre-existing malocclusion, where your lower jaw is slightly misaligned, causing your upper teeth to tilt towards the right side. This misalignment can lead to uneven wear on your teeth and may contribute to discomfort when chewing or speaking. The fact that you can only effectively use the left side of your mouth for biting and chewing suggests that your bite is not functioning optimally, which can lead to further complications over time.
The sensation you experience when you touch your lower left second molar, which produces a sound but does not seem to move, could indicate a few things. It might be related to the root structure of the tooth or the surrounding bone. If there is pressure from the wisdom tooth that is still erupting, it could indeed affect the stability of your second molar. Wisdom teeth, or third molars, often cause issues when they do not have enough space to erupt properly, leading to impaction. This can create pressure on adjacent teeth, potentially causing discomfort or shifting in alignment.
Your concern about the left wisdom tooth exerting pressure on the second molar is valid. If the wisdom tooth is growing in at an angle or is impacted, it can push against the second molar, leading to discomfort and possibly affecting its stability. This pressure can also contribute to the sensation you describe as "移位" (movement) when you touch the tooth with your tongue.
Regarding your habit of licking the area, while it may not directly cause the tooth to fall out, it can exacerbate any existing irritation or discomfort. It is essential to avoid excessive manipulation of the area, as this could lead to further inflammation or discomfort.
Given that you have already consulted with a dentist and had X-rays taken, it is crucial to follow up with a dental specialist, particularly one who focuses on temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders or orthodontics. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation of your bite and the positioning of your teeth, including the wisdom teeth.
In terms of treatment options, if the wisdom tooth is indeed causing issues, extraction may be necessary to alleviate pressure on the second molar and prevent further complications. Additionally, orthodontic treatment could be considered to correct the misalignment of your teeth, which may improve your overall bite and reduce discomfort.
In summary, your lower left second molar's issues during wisdom teeth growth are likely interconnected with your existing dental alignment and the potential impact of the wisdom tooth. It is advisable to seek further evaluation from a dental specialist to explore your options for treatment and to address any concerns regarding the stability of your teeth. Regular dental check-ups and maintaining good oral hygiene will also be crucial in managing your dental health moving forward.
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