Dentures and Jaw Pain: When to See a Dentist

Regarding dentures and toothache?

Hello, a few years ago I had a dental prosthesis placed on my left molar, but I have not had a prosthesis for my right molar.
Due to the long-term use of my left teeth, they have worn down significantly.
I hardly use my right teeth at all, which has caused my bite to shift to one side.
Additionally, it feels like there is some bone fragmentation on the left side.
Recently, I have noticed a slight swelling on my left jaw, although it is not very pronounced.
When I press the swollen area against the bone of my chest, I can distinctly feel pain.
Pressing directly on my jaw also causes pain, but I cannot feel any protrusion.
I later realized that it seems to be my gums that are painful; when I insert my finger into the gum area and apply pressure, it hurts.
Pressing on the right side does not cause any discomfort.
I suspect that the long-term use of my left teeth, combined with the difficulty in keeping the area around the prosthesis clean, may have led to food particles getting trapped, affecting my gums and possibly the nerves in my jaw, or even causing bone fragmentation due to prolonged use.
Should I see a dentist for this condition, or is there another specialist I should consult?

Chong Yao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/05/06

Dr. Zhuang Suhui reply Dentistry

Bilateral chewing is better than unilateral chewing as it evenly distributes occlusal pressure.
If oral hygiene is not maintained over a long period, it can lead to gingival inflammation, which may present as swelling and pain.
However, to confirm whether it is indeed gingival inflammation, clinical findings should be relied upon.
It is recommended to first visit a dental clinic, and if dental issues are ruled out, then seek treatment from other specialties.

Reply Date: 2006/05/06

More Info

It sounds like you're experiencing a complex situation with your dental health, particularly related to your dentures and the discomfort in your jaw. Given your history of using only one side of your mouth for chewing and the recent pain and swelling in your jaw, it is crucial to seek professional dental advice as soon as possible.

Firstly, the discomfort you're feeling in your jaw, especially if it is localized to the area around your denture, could be due to several factors. One possibility is that the pressure from chewing predominantly on one side has led to uneven wear and tear on your remaining teeth and jawbone. This can cause muscle strain and discomfort in the jaw joint (temporomandibular joint or TMJ), which may explain the pain you're experiencing when pressing on certain areas.

Additionally, if food particles are getting trapped under your denture and not being cleaned properly, this could lead to gum inflammation or infection, which can also cause pain and swelling. Poor oral hygiene around dentures can lead to conditions such as denture stomatitis, which is an inflammation of the tissues under the denture. This could explain the tenderness in your gums when you apply pressure.

The sensation of a "bump" or swelling in your jaw could be related to several issues, including bone changes due to the lack of stimulation from chewing on both sides, or it could be a sign of an infection or abscess in the gum tissue. If you feel that there is a hard area or a lump, it is essential to have it evaluated by a dentist, as they can perform a thorough examination and possibly take X-rays to assess the underlying bone structure and any potential issues with your teeth or gums.

Given your symptoms, I strongly recommend that you see a dentist as soon as possible. They will be able to provide a comprehensive evaluation of your oral health, including the condition of your dentures, the health of your gums, and the state of your remaining teeth. If necessary, they may refer you to a specialist, such as an oral surgeon or a periodontist, for further evaluation and treatment.

In the meantime, here are a few tips to help manage your discomfort:
1. Maintain Oral Hygiene: Ensure that you are cleaning your dentures thoroughly and also brushing your gums and any remaining teeth. This can help reduce the risk of infection and inflammation.

2. Avoid Hard Foods: Stick to softer foods that require less chewing, especially on the side that is painful. This can help alleviate some of the pressure on your jaw.

3. Warm Compress: Applying a warm compress to the outside of your jaw can help soothe muscle tension and reduce discomfort.

4. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relief medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage pain, but consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medication.

5. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, such as increased swelling, pain, or changes in your ability to chew, and report these to your dentist.

In summary, your situation warrants a visit to a dentist who can assess your oral health comprehensively. They will be able to determine the cause of your discomfort and recommend appropriate treatment options, whether that involves adjustments to your dentures, treatment for gum disease, or other interventions. Don't delay in seeking care, as early intervention can prevent more serious complications down the line.

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