Pain After Dental Bridge Installation: Causes and Solutions

Q: Pain After Dental Bridge Installation: Causes and Solutions

Dear Ms. <br>EVA： Hello! I am very sympathetic to your pain! It is important to conduct a thorough examination to determine if the issue is related to your teeth, gums, or bone. <br>Please communicate more with your physician! Thank you! Wishing you peace! Sincerely, Dr. <br>Huan

Experiencing pain while eating with a dental bridge?

Hello Dr.
Huang,
I had my lower right first molar extracted on June 28, and a dental bridge placed on September 21.
However, I have been unable to eat anything because it causes severe pain under the bridge.
The doctor suggested performing root canal treatment on the adjacent teeth on October 1.
On October 6, I suddenly experienced acute tooth pain, which was later found to be due to remnants from the extraction that were not completely removed.
They had to reopen the area to extract the fragments.
As a result, I lost two teeth to root canal treatment unnecessarily.
On November 10, I had a new dental bridge placed again.

On the same day, I experienced swelling and intense pain even without eating.
Pushing on the bridge with my tongue causes pain, and eating results in significant discomfort in the entire alveolar ridge, making it impossible to apply any pressure.
As of today, November 24, the pain has slightly improved compared to the previous days, but I still cannot function normally.
My doctor cannot identify the cause and has stated that it is not due to high occlusion.
The bridge is still in place, but I am unsure whether it should be removed since the cause remains unknown.
Additionally, my second molar has a C-shaped root canal, and after the root canal treatment was completed, I felt discomfort when pushing on the tooth with my tongue before the bridge was placed.
However, the doctor assured me that the root canal was completed without issues.
I also have an open bite and a missing lower left first molar.
I feel quite helpless and do not know what to do next.
Should I have the bridge removed or continue to observe? What other reasons could cause a properly placed dental bridge to be unable to withstand pressure? Alternatively, should I visit a larger hospital for a more detailed examination?

EVA, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/11/24

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry

Dear Ms.
EVA: Hello! I am very sympathetic to your pain! It is important to conduct a thorough examination to determine if the issue is related to your teeth, gums, or bone.
Please communicate more with your physician! Thank you! Wishing you peace! Sincerely, Dr.
Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry.

Reply Date: 2016/11/24

More Info

Understanding pain after the installation of a dental bridge can be quite complex, as it involves various factors related to the dental procedure, the condition of the surrounding teeth, and individual patient responses. Based on your detailed description, it appears that you have experienced significant discomfort following the installation of your dental bridge, which has not resolved despite multiple interventions. Here are some potential causes and solutions to consider:

Potential Causes of Pain After Dental Bridge Installation
1. Incomplete Tooth Extraction: As you mentioned, there was a situation where remnants of the extracted tooth were left behind, which could lead to inflammation or infection in the surrounding tissues. This can cause pain that radiates to the area where the bridge is placed.

2. Infection or Inflammation: After root canal treatment, there can be residual infection or inflammation in the surrounding bone or gums. This can lead to discomfort, especially when pressure is applied, such as during chewing.

3. Improper Fit of the Bridge: If the dental bridge does not fit properly, it can create pressure points on the underlying teeth or gums, leading to pain. This can occur if the bridge is too high or if there are areas where it does not make proper contact with the supporting teeth.

4. Occlusal Issues: Even if your dentist has ruled out high occlusion, there could still be issues with how your teeth come together when you bite. Misalignment can lead to undue stress on certain teeth, causing pain.

5. Gum Disease: If there is underlying gum disease, it can exacerbate discomfort in the area of the bridge. The gums may become inflamed and sensitive, leading to pain when pressure is applied.

6. Nerve Sensitivity: Following dental procedures, the nerves in the area may become hypersensitive. This can lead to pain that feels more intense than expected, especially when pressure is applied.

7. Psychological Factors: Sometimes, anxiety or stress related to dental procedures can heighten the perception of pain. This is not uncommon and can complicate the clinical picture.

Solutions and Recommendations
1. Follow-Up with Your Dentist: It is crucial to maintain open communication with your dentist. If pain persists, request a thorough examination to check for any underlying issues that may have been overlooked. This may include X-rays to assess the health of the bone and surrounding tissues.

2. Consider a Second Opinion: If your current dentist is unable to identify the cause of your pain, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion from another dental professional, preferably one who specializes in restorative dentistry or oral surgery.

3. Pain Management: In the interim, over-the-counter pain relief medications may help manage discomfort. However, consult with your dentist before taking any medication to ensure it is appropriate for your situation.

4. Adjustments to the Bridge: If the bridge is found to be improperly fitted, your dentist may need to make adjustments to relieve pressure points. This can often alleviate pain significantly.

5. Investigate Underlying Conditions: If gum disease or other dental issues are present, addressing these conditions is essential. This may involve professional cleaning, scaling, or other periodontal treatments.

6. Referral to a Specialist: If the pain continues and the cause remains unclear, your dentist may refer you to an oral surgeon or a specialist in dental pain management for further evaluation.

7. Monitoring: If no immediate cause is found, your dentist may suggest monitoring the situation for a short period to see if the pain resolves on its own.

In conclusion, while the pain you are experiencing after the installation of your dental bridge is understandably distressing, there are several avenues to explore for relief. It is essential to work closely with your dental care team to identify the root cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Don't hesitate to advocate for your health and seek the care you need to achieve comfort and functionality in your dental health.

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