Oral Mucosa Issues: A Guide for Persistent Discomfort

Oral mucosa

Hello, Doctor.
I apologize for mistakenly asking another physician the same question.
Dr.
Li, I have been experiencing discomfort in my oral cavity for four months now.
During this time, I have consulted several dentists, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, and ENT specialists.
Ultimately, I was referred by a dentist to see an oral medicine specialist.
The doctor stated that there are no issues with my oral mucosa and that my gums are clear, and only an X-ray was taken.
However, the discomfort in my mouth is very real.
The doctor suggested that I have a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issue combined with oral dysesthesia.
Although my TMJ discomfort has subsided, I still feel discomfort in my gums and dental arches, experiencing mild pain and heat.
The mucosa in my mouth is painful, and the back side of my left tongue has a salty and sour taste.
All symptoms are confined to the left side of my mouth.
The doctor mentioned that the oral dysesthesia might be due to a brain issue, similar to a computer error, which is why I continuously feel discomfort in the left side of my oral mucosa and gums, along with an unusual taste sensation at the back of my tongue.
I have also seen an ENT specialist, who said everything seemed fine, but the discomfort and taste abnormalities persist.
The doctor has prescribed medication to help alleviate my emotional distress.
I asked the doctor if I would eventually get better, and he said I would, as long as I manage my emotions and try not to focus on the discomfort, but it may take a long time to improve.

I am still very worried about whether there is an underlying issue in my mouth or if something has developed.
I once mentioned to my doctor that I wanted to pay out of pocket for a CT scan, but he said it was unnecessary.
However, I continue to feel discomfort, which has affected my daily life and emotional well-being.
At times, the discomfort is so overwhelming that I contemplate self-harm, but I do not have the courage to go through with it, especially since I have a six-month-old and a six-year-old child.
I truly cannot bear the thought of leaving them, so I keep telling myself that it’s nothing serious and that I can endure the discomfort.
However, these symptoms do not cease; I feel them every moment of the day.
The doctor also believes I may have some psychosomatic issues, and I mentioned that I could see a psychiatrist if necessary, as long as I can be treated.
The oral medicine doctor suggested that I see a psychosomatic specialist, as general surgery would not be effective for my condition.

I am genuinely unsure about which specialist I should consult next.
Could you please help me analyze my situation? Do I need a CT scan or other examinations, or could you refer me to the appropriate department? If I wish to schedule an appointment with Dr.
Li Chia-Hsuan, is that possible? Please assist me in addressing this condition or arranging for a CT scan.
Thank you very much for your help.

Ms. Chen, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/05/04

Dr. Li Jiaxuan reply Otolaryngology

Having a six-month-old child indicates that your female hormones may have fluctuated in the short term.
Hormones can affect mucosal sensations, including taste and smell.
If possible, consider visiting an obstetrician-gynecologist to check your endocrine system.
Until you receive results, try to avoid excessive fatigue (though it's difficult with a young child) and refrain from consuming very hot, very cold, or spicy foods.
Wishing you well.

Reply Date: 2019/05/04

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a complex and distressing set of symptoms related to your oral health, which have persisted for several months. Your detailed description indicates that you have sought help from various specialists, including dentists, oral surgeons, and ENT doctors, but have not yet found a satisfactory resolution to your discomfort.
From what you've described, your symptoms include persistent discomfort in the left side of your mouth, including a burning sensation in the oral mucosa, discomfort in the gums, and unusual taste sensations on the left side of your tongue. You also mentioned that these symptoms have been linked to a possible temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issue, which can indeed cause referred pain and discomfort in the oral cavity.
The first step in addressing your concerns is to ensure that all potential physical causes have been thoroughly investigated. While your oral examinations and X-rays have not revealed any significant abnormalities, it may be beneficial to consider further imaging studies, such as a CT scan or MRI, especially if there is a suspicion of underlying issues that may not be visible on standard X-rays. These imaging techniques can provide a more detailed view of the structures in your jaw and oral cavity, including the TMJ, which may help identify any anatomical issues contributing to your symptoms.

In addition to physical examinations, it is crucial to consider the psychological aspects of your symptoms. Chronic pain and discomfort can significantly impact mental health, leading to anxiety and depression, which can, in turn, exacerbate physical symptoms. You mentioned that your healthcare provider has prescribed medication to help manage your emotional state, which is a positive step. It may also be beneficial to explore therapy options, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which can help you develop coping strategies for managing both your physical discomfort and the emotional distress it causes.

Given your situation, it might be worthwhile to seek a multidisciplinary approach. This could involve working with a team that includes an oral medicine specialist, a psychologist or psychiatrist, and possibly a physical therapist who specializes in TMJ disorders. This team can collaborate to address both the physical and emotional components of your symptoms.

If you are considering seeing Dr. Li Chia-Hsuan, it would be advisable to contact their office directly to inquire about availability and whether they can assist with your specific concerns. They may also be able to provide referrals to other specialists if needed.

Lastly, it’s essential to communicate openly with your healthcare providers about your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. If you feel that your concerns are not being adequately addressed, don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion. Your health and well-being are paramount, and finding the right support is crucial in navigating this challenging situation.

In summary, I recommend the following steps:
1. Consider further imaging studies (CT or MRI) to rule out any underlying issues.

2. Continue to address the psychological aspects of your symptoms with appropriate therapy and medication.

3. Seek a multidisciplinary approach involving specialists in oral medicine, psychology, and physical therapy.

4. Communicate openly with your healthcare providers and consider seeking a second opinion if necessary.

Your persistence in seeking help is commendable, and I hope you find relief soon.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Persistent Oral Discomfort: Causes and Solutions

Hello Dr. Tseng, I apologize for the lengthy message, but I recently underwent some examinations and would appreciate your patience in reading through my concerns. Thank you. I have been experiencing discomfort in my oral cavity for the past five months. Let me detail my curren...

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
It is recommended that if there is a suspicion of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues, one should consult an oral and maxillofacial surgeon for a TMJ imaging examination, and also to assess whether there is an issue with occlusal instability.

Persistent Oral Discomfort: Understanding Causes and Solutions

Hello, Director Lin: I have been experiencing discomfort on the inner right side of my mouth for about 5 to 6 years. Initially, I thought it was related to my wisdom teeth, so I had them removed approximately 3 years ago, but the discomfort persists. I constantly feel a sensation...

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry
Hello: It is recommended to perform a neck and head X-ray to confirm whether there is inflammation or foreign body infection in that area. Additionally, it is important to rule out the presence of overly deep dental implants or unsuitable crowns/bridges. Psychogenic factors such ...

Understanding Oral Mucosa Issues: Could It Be Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunction?

Hello Doctor, I would like to consult you. I have been experiencing discomfort in my oral mucosa for a month and a half (since I had my upper left second molar extracted). The symptoms are a burning and stabbing sensation localized to the left side of my cheek and the area of the...

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Hello: In addition to considering diseases of the immune system, your symptoms may also suggest trigeminal neuralgia, particularly given your neuropathic pain symptoms that may involve the mandibular branch. According to the International Classification of Headache Disorders, Thi...

Addressing Oral Discomfort from Misaligned Teeth: Risks and Solutions

Due to malocclusion, one of the lower teeth is protruding outward and constantly rubbing against the inner side of the lower lip, causing the mucosa in that area to feel rough when licked by the tongue. I would like to know what potential risks this condition may pose if it conti...

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Repeated damage to the mucosa of the lower lip can easily lead to the formation of fibromas over time. It is advisable to consult a dentist to address any protruding teeth. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.