Occlusal Pain: When to Seek Dental Care - Dentistry

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Understanding occlusal pain can be complex, especially when it involves previous dental work and potential underlying issues. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing discomfort in the lower right area of your mouth, specifically between the last two teeth, which could be related to several factors.

Firstly, it’s important to note that occlusal pain can arise from various sources, including dental issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, or complications from previous dental procedures. In your case, since you mentioned that the corresponding upper tooth is misaligned, this could indeed contribute to your discomfort. Misalignment can lead to uneven pressure during biting and chewing, which may cause pain or discomfort in the affected teeth.

Given that you had a dental examination two months ago where X-rays and percussion tests did not reveal any significant issues, it is possible that the current discomfort could be due to a few reasons:
1. Gum Inflammation: As your dentist suggested, gum inflammation (gingivitis) could be a cause of your discomfort. This condition can lead to sensitivity and pain, especially when pressure is applied. If you have not been maintaining optimal oral hygiene, it may be worth revisiting your dental care routine, including regular brushing, flossing, and possibly using an antibacterial mouthwash.

2. Occlusal Trauma: If your bite is misaligned due to the crooked upper tooth, it could create an uneven distribution of forces when you chew. This can lead to occlusal trauma, which may manifest as pain when biting or applying pressure. If this is the case, a dentist may recommend an occlusal adjustment or a bite guard to alleviate the pressure on the affected teeth.

3. Underlying Dental Issues: Even if the previous examination did not show any problems, it’s possible that a developing issue, such as a crack in the tooth or a hidden cavity, could be causing your pain. Cracked teeth can sometimes be difficult to diagnose without specific tests, such as a cone beam CT scan, which provides a more detailed view of the tooth structure.

4. Referred Pain: Sometimes, pain in one area of the mouth can be referred from another area. For example, issues with the jaw joint (temporomandibular joint disorders) or muscle tension from grinding your teeth (bruxism) can cause discomfort that feels like it’s coming from the teeth.

Given that your symptoms have returned after a period of relief, it would be advisable to seek dental care again. It’s not a waste of resources to have a follow-up, especially if the pain persists or worsens. A thorough examination, possibly including new X-rays or other diagnostic tests, can help identify any changes or new issues that may have developed since your last visit.

In summary, while it’s possible that your symptoms are due to simple gum inflammation, the recurrence of pain suggests that further evaluation is warranted. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to dental health, as early intervention can prevent more serious complications down the line. Make sure to communicate all your symptoms clearly to your dentist, including any changes in your oral health, to ensure a comprehensive assessment.