IL
A 66-year-old female asked:
Having issue with 2 back molars that have root canals pain between the 2 teeth. returned to dentist and x-rays and root canals look good. my bite feels off. could the bite cause pain like this? i also have tmj issues on that side?
3 doctor answers • 4 doctors weighed in
Dr. Hiep Leanswered
Nephrology and Dialysis 44 years experience
I would try these maneuvers to figure out if pain is a referred pain due to TMJ or due to the tooth problem itself. If you move your jaw without biting your teeth and you have the same pain, the pain you have had with biting is indeed a referred pain from your TMJ. Vice versa, try to move or knock the molars with a small plier, if you elicit the same pain, molar problem is likely the culprit.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Reviewed Oct 12, 2021
Dr. Theodore Davantzisanswered
Dentistry 42 years experience
An occlusal discrepancy may be causing your issue. TMJ pain can possibly be referred. Either tooth may have a fracture or a subclinical infection that is not showing up on your radiographs. Have an endodontist evaluate those two teeth, and have your bite equilibrated by your dentist.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Reviewed Oct 12, 2021
Dr. Arnold Malermananswered
Orthodontics 55 years experience
2 most probable causes are infection and inflammation, or both. "High" restoration cause inflammation, as can joints inflammation. As x-rays alone are 2 dimensional, teeth may require 3-D CBCT and evaluation by a specialist Endodontist. Fractures or unfilled auxiliary canals can represent areas of infection/inflammation.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Answered Oct 23, 2021
Last updated Oct 23, 2021
People also asked
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
24/7 visits - just $44!
50% off with $19/month membership
Disclaimer:
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.