Tooth Pain and Gum Swelling: Causes and Solutions

Q: Tooth Pain and Gum Swelling: Causes and Solutions

Hello： If you feel that your occlusion is higher after the completion of treatment, it is recommended to return for an adjustment by your dentist. <br>As for the chest tightness, you should consult an internist for further evaluation.

Toothache, dental issues, and swollen gums?

I had pain in my teeth recently, specifically in the lower right row.
My wisdom tooth has a cavity that looks black.
After a period of no pain, one day I felt pain between the third and fourth teeth from the right when biting down on something.
The pain gradually worsened.
Later, the dentist said it could be fixed with a filling and mentioned that the pain in the other teeth was caused by the cavity in the wisdom tooth.
After the filling, the pain decreased, and I thought it would eventually go away.
However, a week has passed, and I still experience pain.
I'm afraid to bite down on that side, but since the filling is higher, it still makes contact, which causes pain.
Even licking it causes some discomfort.
There is a thin red line at the junction between my teeth and gums, and my gums are slightly painful, but the pain is brief and only occurs when irritated.
The gum between the teeth feels prickly but not painful.
Drinking cold or hot beverages doesn't cause pain.
Recently, I've been feeling more fatigued and experiencing chest tightness and pain.
I'm not sure if this is related or if there could be another cause.
Thank you!

Xiao Miao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/05/09

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: If you feel that your occlusion is higher after the completion of treatment, it is recommended to return for an adjustment by your dentist.
As for the chest tightness, you should consult an internist for further evaluation.

Reply Date: 2024/05/09

More Info

Tooth pain and gum swelling can be distressing symptoms that often indicate underlying dental issues. Based on your description, it seems that your pain is localized to the lower right quadrant of your mouth, particularly around the area of your wisdom tooth, which has a cavity. This situation can lead to a variety of complications, including pain in adjacent teeth and gum inflammation.

Possible Causes of Your Symptoms
1. Cavity in Wisdom Tooth: The cavity in your wisdom tooth can cause localized pain and may also lead to referred pain in adjacent teeth. When a tooth has decay, it can irritate the nerve endings, leading to discomfort when biting or even when the area is touched.

2. Gum Inflammation: The presence of a cavity can lead to gum irritation and inflammation, which might explain the redness and tenderness you are experiencing along the gum line. This inflammation can cause intermittent pain, especially when the area is stimulated, such as during eating or brushing.

3. Infection: If the cavity in your wisdom tooth has progressed, it could lead to an infection, which might cause swelling and pain in the surrounding gums and teeth. An infection can also lead to the formation of an abscess, which can be quite painful and may require immediate dental intervention.

4. Referred Pain: Sometimes, pain in one tooth can be felt in another due to the way nerves are interconnected. The pain you feel in the adjacent teeth could be a result of the wisdom tooth's condition.

5. Stress and Fatigue: You mentioned feeling fatigued and experiencing chest discomfort. While these symptoms may not be directly related to your dental issues, stress and fatigue can exacerbate pain perception and may lead to muscle tension, which can contribute to discomfort in the jaw and teeth.

Recommended Solutions
1. Dental Evaluation: It is crucial to follow up with your dentist for a thorough examination. They may recommend X-rays to assess the extent of decay in your wisdom tooth and check for any signs of infection or other dental issues.

2. Treatment Options: Depending on the findings, treatment may involve:
- Fillings: If the cavity is not too deep, a filling may resolve the pain.

- Root Canal Treatment: If the decay has reached the pulp of the tooth, a root canal may be necessary to remove the infected tissue.

- Extraction: If the wisdom tooth is severely decayed and causing recurrent issues, extraction may be the best option.

3. Pain Management: In the meantime, over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage discomfort. Additionally, warm saltwater rinses can soothe inflamed gums.

4. Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing gently around the affected area and flossing to remove any food particles that may irritate the gums.

5. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms. If you notice increased swelling, persistent pain, or the development of a fever, seek dental care immediately, as these could be signs of a more serious infection.

6. Stress Management: Since you mentioned feeling fatigued and experiencing chest discomfort, it may be beneficial to engage in stress-reducing activities, such as exercise, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises. However, if chest pain persists, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any serious conditions.

Conclusion
Tooth pain and gum swelling can arise from various dental issues, particularly cavities and gum inflammation. It is essential to consult with a dentist for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate treatment. In the meantime, managing pain and maintaining oral hygiene can help alleviate some discomfort. Remember, addressing dental issues promptly can prevent more severe complications in the future.

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