Dental Discomfort: Causes and Solutions for Bite Issues - Dentistry

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I've been experiencing discomfort in my bite for the past two weeks?


Hello, doctor.
At the end of June, I had my wisdom tooth cause a crack in my molar, which often results in cuts on my tongue, so I went to see a dentist.
(Since the nerve in that molar was removed, I didn't feel it crack.) The dentist referred me to a larger hospital and temporarily filled the crack.
However, I have to wait about half a month for an appointment at the larger hospital, and during this time, I often feel a sensation similar to heat in the area of the wisdom tooth.
My tongue also feels uncomfortable, and sometimes I wake up with a blister-like bump on it.
I used to not grind my teeth, but recently I've started to grind them occasionally (according to others).
During the day, I often notice that I am clenching my teeth tightly, and there are days when I wake up with slight soreness in my teeth.
Then one day, I suddenly felt discomfort in my bite.
I have upper front teeth that are involved, but recently it feels very uncomfortable as the outer side of my upper front teeth presses against the inner side of my lower teeth.
Eating has become somewhat difficult, and when I bite down, I feel the upper front teeth collide with the inner side of the lower teeth, making me hesitant to bite down hard.
It feels like there is a lot of pressure.
(P.S.
I haven't fallen or had any impact recently.) Doctor, is there a connection between all of this? Also, how can I improve this situation?

Runrun, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/07/16

Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry


Dear Runrun,
Hello.
Wisdom teeth can easily cause issues due to their improper positioning, leading to food impaction that may result in cavities in the second molars.
Under occlusion, they can cause tooth damage, and their sharp edges can injure the back of the tongue, leading to blisters.
Additionally, impacted lower wisdom teeth may not erupt properly, causing the corresponding upper wisdom teeth to be pushed down by the alveolar bone, which can interfere with occlusion.
If the upper third molars are not extracted, occlusal adjustment may be necessary.
As you mentioned, this can create occlusal pressure, leading to temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ).

Wishing you peace and health.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Huang Chih-Cheng
Director of Dentistry, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2015/07/16

More Info


Dental discomfort can be a complex issue, often stemming from various underlying causes. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing a combination of problems related to your wisdom teeth, potential bite misalignment, and possibly bruxism (teeth grinding). Let’s break down the issues and explore potential solutions.


Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Wisdom Teeth and Cracked Molars: The fact that your wisdom tooth has caused a crack in your molar suggests that there may be pressure being exerted on your other teeth. This can lead to discomfort and even pain, especially if the cracked tooth has been treated with a root canal, as it may not have the same structural integrity as a healthy tooth. The sensation of heat you describe could indicate inflammation or infection in the area surrounding the wisdom tooth.

2. Sore Tongue and Blisters: The discomfort in your tongue, particularly the appearance of blisters, could be a result of friction against the sharp edges of the cracked molar or the wisdom tooth. This is not uncommon when teeth are misaligned or when there is a lack of opposing teeth to provide balance in your bite.

3. Bite Issues: The feeling that your upper front teeth are pressing against your lower teeth can indicate a misalignment in your bite, which may have been exacerbated by the loss of structural support from the cracked molar. This misalignment can lead to discomfort when chewing and can contribute to the sensation of pressure you are experiencing.

4. Bruxism: The sudden onset of teeth grinding, especially during the day, can be a response to stress or discomfort in your mouth. Grinding can further exacerbate any existing dental issues, leading to increased wear on your teeth and additional discomfort.


Recommendations for Improvement
1. Seek Immediate Dental Care: Given the complexity of your symptoms, it is crucial to see a dentist as soon as possible, especially since you have already been referred to a specialist. While waiting for your appointment, try to manage any discomfort with over-the-counter pain relief, but avoid self-diagnosing or self-treating beyond this.

2. Oral Hygiene: Maintain excellent oral hygiene to prevent any potential infections, especially around the wisdom tooth and the cracked molar. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and consider using an antibacterial mouthwash to help reduce inflammation and promote healing.

3. Dietary Adjustments: While you are experiencing discomfort, try to avoid hard or crunchy foods that may aggravate your teeth. Opt for softer foods that require less chewing, which can help alleviate pressure on your teeth and gums.

4. Stress Management: If you suspect that stress is contributing to your bruxism, consider incorporating stress-reducing techniques into your daily routine. This could include mindfulness practices, yoga, or even physical exercise, which can help reduce tension in your jaw.

5. Night Guards: Once you have seen your dentist, discuss the possibility of a night guard if bruxism is confirmed. A night guard can help protect your teeth from grinding and alleviate some of the pressure on your jaw.

6. Follow-Up Care: After your treatment for the cracked molar and wisdom tooth, ensure that you have a follow-up appointment to monitor your recovery and address any ongoing issues with your bite or discomfort.


Conclusion
Your symptoms are interconnected, and addressing them holistically is essential for your dental health. While waiting for your dental appointment, focus on maintaining good oral hygiene, managing discomfort, and reducing stress. Once you have a clearer diagnosis from your dentist, you can explore targeted treatments to alleviate your discomfort and restore your oral health. Remember, early intervention is key to preventing further complications, so prioritize your dental care.

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