Tooth Pain: Is It Wisdom Teeth or Something Else?

Q: Tooth Pain: Is It Wisdom Teeth or Something Else?

Hello： Given your age and the described condition, a common cause is significant stress from studying and exams, leading to teeth clenching or even nighttime bruxism, which can result in excessive force on the teeth and subsequent pulpitis. <br>Typically, using a bite guard in co

Unclear symptoms?

Hello, doctor.
Recently, I've been experiencing pain in my upper and lower right teeth when biting down on harder foods.
Today, I visited the dentist, who took X-rays and suggested that it might be due to an emerging wisdom tooth or a previous filling that may have deteriorated.
I was advised to observe the situation for a few more days.
The dentist tapped on my teeth, and I did not feel any pain.
I also drink hot and cold water without any sensitivity.
Could this indicate that the previous filling has worsened? I read online that it might be periodontal disease, but I don't experience any bleeding from my gums when I brush my teeth.
Is it still possible that I have periodontal disease? If it’s simply due to the wisdom tooth, does it typically hurt when biting food during its eruption? How can I determine if it needs to be extracted? Thank you for your hard work, doctor!

N, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/08

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: Given your age and the described condition, a common cause is significant stress from studying and exams, leading to teeth clenching or even nighttime bruxism, which can result in excessive force on the teeth and subsequent pulpitis.
Typically, using a bite guard in conjunction with oral muscle relaxants can provide significant relief and improvement.
As for the wisdom teeth or cavities, a differential diagnosis requires X-rays, so it is advisable to consult with a treating physician for a more appropriate explanation.
Sincerely, Lin Chia-Yung, Department of Dentistry, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2021/07/08

More Info

Tooth pain can be a complex issue, and understanding its origins is crucial for effective treatment. Based on your description, there are several potential causes for the discomfort you're experiencing when biting down on food, particularly on the right side of your mouth.
Firstly, the pain could indeed be related to the wisdom teeth, especially if they are erupting or impacted. Wisdom teeth, or third molars, often cause discomfort as they emerge, particularly if there is insufficient space in the jaw for them to grow properly. This can lead to pressure on adjacent teeth, resulting in pain when biting down. Additionally, if the wisdom teeth are partially erupted, they can create pockets where food and bacteria can accumulate, leading to inflammation and pain.

Another possibility is that the pain is associated with a previously filled tooth. If the filling has deteriorated or if there is decay beneath the filling, this could lead to sensitivity or pain when pressure is applied. The fact that you are not experiencing sensitivity to hot or cold suggests that the nerve of the tooth may still be healthy, but it does not rule out other issues such as cracks or fractures in the tooth structure that could be causing pain when biting.

You also mentioned the possibility of periodontal disease. While you noted that your gums do not bleed when brushing, it's important to understand that periodontal disease can still be present without obvious symptoms. Factors such as gum recession or bone loss around the teeth can lead to discomfort, particularly when chewing. However, the absence of bleeding is a good sign, as it often indicates that your gum health is relatively stable.

To determine whether the pain is due to wisdom teeth or a problem with a filled tooth, further diagnostic measures may be necessary. An X-ray can provide valuable insights into the position of the wisdom teeth and the condition of the surrounding teeth. If the wisdom teeth are impacted, your dentist may recommend extraction. Conversely, if the issue lies with a filled tooth, further treatment such as a new filling or possibly a root canal may be necessary if decay is found.

Regarding your question about whether wisdom teeth cause pain when they first erupt, the answer is yes. Many individuals experience discomfort as their wisdom teeth begin to emerge, particularly if there is not enough space in the jaw. This discomfort can manifest as pain when biting down or even general soreness in the jaw area.

In summary, the pain you are experiencing could be attributed to several factors, including the eruption of wisdom teeth, issues with a previously filled tooth, or even early signs of periodontal disease. It is essential to follow up with your dentist for a thorough examination and possibly further imaging to pinpoint the exact cause of your discomfort. Based on the findings, your dentist can recommend the most appropriate treatment plan, whether it involves monitoring the situation, performing additional dental work, or considering extraction of the wisdom teeth. Always communicate openly with your dental care provider about your symptoms and concerns to ensure the best possible outcome for your oral health.

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