Discomfort on the Side of the Tongue: Is It Related to Missing Molars?

Q: Discomfort on the Side of the Tongue: Is It Related to Missing Molars?

Hello： The upper right molar has completely fallen out, leaving only the second molar in the oral cavity. <br>Due to the absence of adjacent teeth, the second molar has tilted towards the tongue side over time, causing friction with the tongue. <br>It is recommended to consult a

Discomfort on the side of the tongue?

Hello, Dr.
Tseng.
Recently, I've been experiencing some discomfort in my tongue, particularly on the right side, which feels slightly painful.
I can't seem to find any visible cause when I look in the mirror.
I'm wondering if this might be related to my molars.
On the right side, I've lost all of my upper molars, and only the second molar remains on the bottom, standing alone.
I'm concerned that this remaining molar might be tilting towards my tongue, causing friction between the tongue and the molar.
The more I think about it, the more I feel like my tongue is constantly touching this molar.
What should I do?

kien, 60~69 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/12/04

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

Hello: The upper right molar has completely fallen out, leaving only the second molar in the oral cavity.
Due to the absence of adjacent teeth, the second molar has tilted towards the tongue side over time, causing friction with the tongue.
It is recommended to consult a dentist for further treatment.
Consider options such as reshaping the tilted second molar or using orthodontic methods to correct its position, followed by a supportive device to stabilize the second molar and prevent it from tilting again.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2013/12/04

More Info

Discomfort on the side of the tongue can indeed be related to dental issues, particularly in the case of missing molars. When molars are lost, it can lead to a variety of changes in the oral cavity, including the alignment of remaining teeth and the way the tongue interacts with them. In your situation, the absence of upper molars and the presence of only one lower molar could cause the remaining tooth to shift or tilt towards the tongue. This misalignment can create friction between the tongue and the tooth, leading to discomfort or pain on the side of the tongue.

The tongue is a highly sensitive organ, and any irritation or pressure from adjacent teeth can result in discomfort. If the remaining second molar is indeed leaning towards the tongue, it could be causing repeated contact, which may lead to inflammation or soreness on the tongue's surface. Additionally, the absence of opposing teeth can alter the normal occlusion (bite) and may lead to further dental complications, such as shifting of the remaining teeth, which can exacerbate the discomfort.

It is also important to consider other potential causes of tongue discomfort. Conditions such as oral thrush, geographic tongue, or even vitamin deficiencies (like B12 or folate) can lead to similar symptoms. However, given your specific situation with missing molars, it is reasonable to suspect that the dental issue is a contributing factor.

To address this discomfort, I recommend the following steps:
1. Consult a Dentist: It is crucial to have a thorough examination by a dentist. They can assess the alignment of your remaining teeth, check for any signs of decay or gum disease, and determine if the remaining molar is indeed causing the irritation.

2. Consider Dental Solutions: Depending on the dentist's assessment, they may suggest options such as dental implants, bridges, or partial dentures to replace the missing molars. Restoring the missing teeth can help improve your bite and reduce the discomfort on your tongue.

3. Maintain Oral Hygiene: Ensure that you are practicing good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily to prevent any additional dental issues that could contribute to tongue discomfort.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms. If the discomfort worsens or if you notice other symptoms such as swelling, persistent pain, or changes in taste, seek dental care promptly.

5. Avoid Irritants: Be mindful of foods that may irritate your tongue, such as spicy or acidic foods. Additionally, avoid tobacco products, which can exacerbate oral discomfort.

In summary, the discomfort you are experiencing on the side of your tongue may very well be related to the missing molars and the resulting changes in your oral environment. A dental consultation is essential to evaluate the situation and explore potential solutions to alleviate your discomfort and improve your overall oral health.

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