Tooth Cracks and Issues with Dental Crowns - Dentistry

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Tooth cracks and issues with dental crowns can be quite concerning, especially when they lead to discomfort or pain. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a few different dental issues that may be interconnected. Let's break down your concerns and provide some clarity.


1. Pain in the Left Molar
You mentioned that after biting down on something hard, your left molar has been causing you pain, particularly when biting at certain angles or when exposed to cold. The dentist's initial assessment indicated that the root was intact and that the tooth was only slightly mobile. This suggests that there may not be a significant structural issue, but rather a temporary sensitivity or inflammation.

Possible Causes:
- Cracked Tooth Syndrome: Even if the X-ray shows no visible cracks, microfractures can occur that may not be easily detectable. These can cause pain when biting down, especially if the crack is located beneath the surface.

- Pulpitis: Inflammation of the dental pulp can occur after trauma, leading to sensitivity to temperature changes.

- Residual Issues from Previous Fillings: If the tooth has a history of fillings, it’s possible that the filling has deteriorated or become loose, which could lead to discomfort.

Recommendations:
- Follow-Up Appointment: If the pain persists or worsens, a follow-up visit is essential. The dentist may need to conduct further tests, such as a pulp vitality test, to assess the health of the tooth's nerve.

- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of when the pain occurs and any other symptoms, such as swelling or changes in the gum tissue.


2. Pain in the Right Molar (Dental Crown)
You also mentioned that your right molar, which is a dental crown, has started to feel painful when not in use, particularly when your teeth are in contact. This could indicate several issues:
Possible Causes:
- Crown Integrity: If the crown is loose or has developed a gap, it may not be providing adequate protection for the underlying tooth, leading to sensitivity or discomfort.

- Gum Inflammation: The presence of a sore on your tongue could suggest irritation or inflammation, possibly linked to the crown or the surrounding gum tissue.

- Underlying Tooth Issues: If the crown is not sealing properly, it could allow bacteria to enter and cause decay in the underlying tooth.

Recommendations:
- Dental Evaluation: It’s crucial to have the crown evaluated by your dentist. They can check for any signs of decay beneath the crown or assess if the crown itself is compromised.

- Oral Hygiene: Maintain excellent oral hygiene, especially around the crown, to prevent any potential gum disease or decay.


General Advice
- Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort in the short term, but they are not a substitute for professional dental care.

- Dietary Adjustments: Avoid hard or sticky foods that could exacerbate the pain until you have a clearer understanding of the issues.

- Regular Check-Ups: Regular dental visits are essential for monitoring the health of your teeth and crowns, especially after experiencing trauma.


Conclusion
In summary, while the initial assessments from your dentist were reassuring, ongoing pain and discomfort warrant further investigation. It’s essential to communicate openly with your dental care provider about your symptoms and any changes you notice. They can provide a more thorough examination and determine the best course of action to address your concerns effectively. Remember, early intervention can often prevent more significant issues down the line, so don’t hesitate to seek further evaluation if your symptoms persist.