Uneven Bite After Molar Grinding: Seeking Solutions for Discomfort - Dentistry

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It sounds like you are experiencing significant discomfort and issues with your bite after an incident that caused trauma to your jaw and teeth. This can be a frustrating and painful situation, especially when it affects your ability to eat and your overall quality of life. Let's break down your concerns and explore potential solutions.

Firstly, it is important to understand that trauma to the jaw and teeth can lead to a variety of issues, including changes in bite alignment, tooth wear, and even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction. The symptoms you describe, such as feeling like one side of your bite is lower and experiencing discomfort while chewing, are common after such an injury. The fact that you feel discomfort in your jaw upon waking may also indicate that you are unconsciously clenching or grinding your teeth at night, which can exacerbate these issues.

When you visited the dentist, they used occlusal paper to assess your bite and made adjustments by grinding down the left posterior molar. This is a common approach to correct bite discrepancies, but it can sometimes lead to further discomfort if the adjustments do not adequately address the underlying issue. If the tooth was ground down too much, it could lead to an even lower bite on that side, making it difficult for your jaw to align properly.

You mentioned that the adjustments made you feel like your bite was even lower and more uncomfortable. This could be due to several factors, including the possibility that the adjustment did not fully address the unevenness caused by the initial trauma. Additionally, if the opposing teeth are not meeting properly, it can lead to an imbalance that makes chewing difficult and uncomfortable.

In terms of solutions, here are a few steps you can consider:
1. Follow-Up with Your Dentist: It is crucial to communicate your ongoing discomfort to your dentist. They may need to reassess your bite and make further adjustments. Sometimes, a more comprehensive approach, such as a bite splint or night guard, can help alleviate pressure on your jaw and teeth while you adjust to the changes.

2. Consider a Specialist: If your dentist is unable to resolve the issue, you might want to seek a consultation with an orthodontist or a specialist in TMJ disorders. They can provide a more detailed evaluation of your bite and jaw alignment and suggest appropriate treatments.

3. Physical Therapy: In some cases, physical therapy focused on the jaw and neck can help relieve tension and improve jaw function. A therapist experienced in treating TMJ disorders can provide exercises and techniques to help alleviate discomfort.

4. Pain Management: While you are working on resolving the bite issue, consider discussing pain management options with your healthcare provider. Over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medications may help alleviate discomfort in the short term.

5. Dietary Adjustments: Until your bite is properly adjusted, you may want to modify your diet to include softer foods that require less chewing. This can help reduce discomfort while eating.

6. Monitoring Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, including pain levels, jaw clicking, or changes in your bite. This information can be valuable for your dental care team as they work to find a solution.

In conclusion, it is essential to address your concerns with your dental care provider and explore further options if necessary. Your comfort and ability to eat without pain are paramount, and there are various avenues to pursue in order to restore balance to your bite and alleviate discomfort. Don't hesitate to advocate for your needs and seek additional opinions if you feel that your current treatment plan is not effective.