Tooth Pain: Is It Related to Wisdom Teeth and Gum Issues?

Pain in the entire row of teeth?

Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing persistent pain in the entire row of teeth on the lower right side.
I visited a dentist a month ago, and the X-ray showed no issues.
The dentist suggested it might be gingivitis, performed a dental cleaning, applied medication, and advised me to monitor the situation at home.
However, the pain has continued.
I would like to know if this pain could be related to the fact that I had my lower right wisdom tooth extracted three months ago, and the wound has not fully healed yet.
Recently, I have also started to feel discomfort in my upper right teeth.
I saw a dentist who mentioned that my first molar has a deep cavity, but it is still a bit away from the nerve, and there are no new cavities.
After a dental cleaning, I was advised to observe at home.
My upper right wisdom tooth has not been extracted yet, and it is still embedded in the gum.
Could the pain possibly be caused by pressure from the wisdom tooth?

Xiao Wu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/04/18

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello, it is recommended to refer to the oral surgery or neurology department of a medical center to confirm whether there is an issue related to the trigeminal nerve and to address the problem of poor healing of the extraction site.
Sincerely, Lin Chia-Yung, Department of Dentistry, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2022/04/18

More Info

Tooth pain, especially when it involves multiple teeth and persists over time, can be a complex issue influenced by various factors, including wisdom teeth, gum health, and potential cavities. In your case, the pain in your lower right side and the discomfort spreading to your upper right teeth could indeed be related to several underlying conditions.

Firstly, the pain you are experiencing could be associated with the healing process after your wisdom tooth extraction. Even three months post-extraction, if the wound has not healed properly, it can lead to ongoing discomfort. This could be due to a condition known as dry socket, where the blood clot at the extraction site either dissolves or becomes dislodged, exposing the bone and nerves underneath. This condition can cause significant pain and may require further treatment from your dentist or oral surgeon.

Additionally, the presence of inflammation in the gums, as suggested by your dentist, could also be contributing to your pain. Gum inflammation, or gingivitis, can occur for various reasons, including plaque buildup, improper oral hygiene, or even the presence of a partially erupted wisdom tooth. If your upper right wisdom tooth is impacted or growing at an angle, it can exert pressure on adjacent teeth, leading to discomfort and pain. This pressure can also cause the gums to become inflamed, resulting in further pain and sensitivity.

Regarding the deep cavity in your first molar, it is crucial to monitor this closely. Even if the cavity is not close to the nerve, it can still cause pain, especially if it has reached the dentin layer of the tooth. Dentin is sensitive and can react to temperature changes or pressure, leading to discomfort. If the cavity is not treated, it could progress and potentially lead to more severe issues, including infection or abscess formation.

Given your symptoms, it would be wise to consider a few steps:
1. Follow-Up with Your Dentist: Since the pain persists, a follow-up appointment is essential. Your dentist may recommend additional imaging, such as a 3D cone beam CT scan, to get a better view of the underlying structures and to check for any issues with the wisdom teeth or surrounding bone.

2. Evaluate Gum Health: If gum inflammation is suspected, a thorough cleaning and possibly a deeper periodontal evaluation may be necessary. This can help address any underlying gum disease that could be contributing to your discomfort.

3. Monitor Wisdom Teeth: If your upper right wisdom tooth is still impacted, it may be worth discussing the possibility of extraction, especially if it is causing pressure on adjacent teeth or contributing to gum issues.

4. Pain Management: In the meantime, over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage your discomfort. However, it is essential to consult your dentist before taking any medication, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

5. Oral Hygiene Practices: Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial. Continue brushing and flossing regularly, and consider using an antibacterial mouthwash to help reduce inflammation and bacteria in the mouth.

In conclusion, the pain you are experiencing could be multifactorial, involving the healing process of your wisdom tooth extraction, gum inflammation, and potential cavities. A comprehensive evaluation by your dentist will be necessary to determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment plan. Don't hesitate to seek further care if your symptoms do not improve or worsen, as early intervention can prevent more severe dental issues in the future.

Similar Q&A

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

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 deteriora...

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 conjun...

Understanding Gum Bleeding: Is It Linked to Jaw Issues and Stress?

Hello Doctor, I am 24 years old. About two years ago, I experienced an acute inflammation of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which made my entire jaw very uncomfortable, although I could still open my mouth partially. Since then, I have become aware of this condition. I recall...

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry
Hello: I recommend that you seek treatment at a larger medical center (such as National Taiwan University Hospital or Veterans General Hospital) for a multidisciplinary approach. Start with the fundamental treatment of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), followed by intervention f...

Understanding Gum Pain: Is Your Wisdom Tooth to Blame?

Hello, doctor. I have pain in both the upper and lower gums on the left side, and I also feel pain while chewing. The pain worsens in the evening, but it improves after a night's sleep. I also experience pain when pressing on the left tonsil. My lower left wisdom tooth has o...

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
It may be discomfort caused by gum inflammation or inflammation of the soft tissue surrounding the wisdom tooth crown. It is recommended that if there is persistent pain, you should consult a dentist for further examination. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Ho...

Pain in Gums and Teeth: Is It Inflammation or Nerve Issues?

Hello doctor, I have a question. When I press down on the middle of my gums with my mouth, it hurts, and I also feel nerve pain in my teeth. Moving my mouth causes nerve pain in my teeth, so I can only eat with the teeth on the side, which is very uncomfortable. Is this inflammat...

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry
Hello: Pain is indeed one of the indicators of inflammation. Staying up late can lead to immune system disruption, which may further contribute to inflammation. However, to make a definitive diagnosis, it is necessary to obtain X-rays or a CT scan to understand the true condition...