Tooth Pain During Facial Movement: Causes and Solutions

When the face moves, the teeth may hurt?

Doctor, I have a question: I previously had a tooth in the upper right corner that underwent root canal treatment and was fitted with a crown.
However, recently, when I run or jump, I experience pain in that area.
When I press on my right cheek and lower jaw, it also hurts.
I feel pain when eating as well.
I went back to the previous dentist, and he mentioned that I have a small cavity there and seemed quite troubled.
He prescribed me anti-inflammatory medication, but the pain returned afterward.
I switched to another clinic, and the dentist couldn't identify any issues; instead, he suggested that I might have sinusitis.
Could you please tell me what the problem might be? Can a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment still develop cavities?

Wang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/05/13

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

The above situation may be due to a lack of proper sealing at the edges of the braces, leading to gum inflammation, or it could be that the teeth themselves have developed cracks.
It is advisable to consult a dentist for further examination.

Reply Date: 2018/05/13

More Info

Tooth pain during facial movement can be a complex issue, especially when there is a history of dental procedures like root canals and crowns. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing pain in the area of a previously treated tooth, which raises several important considerations.

1. Understanding Tooth Pain After Root Canal Treatment:
Even after a root canal, a tooth can still develop issues. The tooth may become reinfected due to a new cavity (as your dentist mentioned), or there could be complications related to the previous treatment. A root canal aims to remove the infected pulp tissue, but if bacteria remain or if new decay occurs, pain can arise. Additionally, the surrounding tissues, including the gums and bone, can become inflamed, leading to discomfort during movement or pressure.

2. Possible Causes of Pain:
- Cavity Formation: As you mentioned, your dentist found a small cavity. This can lead to sensitivity and pain, especially when chewing or applying pressure.

- Sinus Issues: Your second dentist suggested sinusitis, which can cause referred pain to the teeth and jaw. The roots of the upper teeth are close to the sinuses, and inflammation in this area can mimic dental pain.

- Jaw Joint Disorders: Conditions like temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can cause pain in the jaw and face, especially during movement. This could be exacerbated by clenching or grinding your teeth, which is common in individuals who experience stress or have dental issues.

- Nerve Damage or Irritation: If there was any trauma to the area during the root canal or subsequent treatments, it could lead to nerve irritation, causing pain during movement.

3. Management and Treatment:
- Dental Evaluation: It’s crucial to have a thorough examination by a dentist who can take X-rays to assess the tooth and surrounding structures. This can help identify any new cavities, infections, or other issues that may not be visible during a standard examination.

- Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage discomfort. However, if the pain persists, stronger prescription medications may be necessary.

- Addressing Sinus Issues: If sinusitis is suspected, treating the underlying sinus condition may alleviate the referred pain. This could include decongestants or nasal sprays.

- TMJ Treatment: If TMJ disorder is a concern, treatments may include physical therapy, stress management techniques, or a night guard to prevent teeth grinding.

4. Follow-Up Care:
It’s essential to follow up with your dentist regularly, especially if you notice changes in pain levels or if new symptoms arise. If the pain continues despite treatment, consider seeking a second opinion from an oral surgeon or a specialist in dental pain management.

In conclusion, while it’s understandable to feel frustrated with the ongoing pain, it’s important to approach the situation systematically. Identifying the root cause through proper dental evaluation and addressing any underlying issues will be key to finding relief. Remember, dental health is interconnected with overall well-being, and addressing these concerns promptly can prevent further complications.

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