How do you know when you have a real tooth problem?

General General TN & GPN (Old Site)
1

So as newly diagnosed with TN how do I know when I have a genuine tooth problem now? Dentist checked me out twice before my diagnosis, but now one of my teeth is really hurting, even outside of the spasms and everything else. How do I know when to go back to the dentist versus clocking everything up to TN?

2

A high resolution panoramic X-ray should detect most abscesses or cracks that could otherwise cause pain. If there is no evidence of abscess in such imagery, then a lot of dentists and neurologists would probably advise you not to have dental work done. Are you under medication for TN yet?

3

Yes just started Tegretol on Friday and has eased the spasms and pain when it does spasm. My dentist did two lots of x rays on my teeth over last fortnight and didn't show any problems, and I wasn't getting any pain from the tooth in the 'tap/vibration test' or the cold. But this tooth has now been feeling sore when pressed/eat on that side for last day.

4

This sounds like a trigger zone. A good many TN patients report pain in a single tooth that shows no evidence of abscess. Some have multiple teeth pulled before a Dentist wakes up and says "this isn't dental". You might want to research the term "atypical odontalgia" and see what you learn.

Regards, Red

5

Thanks

6

I would say, based on my experience, that if the tooth isn't sensitive to hot/cold/touch, then it is probably TN. Make sure you have regular dental check-ups to catch anything that might be brewing dentally.

7

It wasn't previously sensitive but last day it Has been sensitive to touch. But it was only last week I had dental x ray and no problems.

CindyLou said:

I would say, based on my experience, that if the tooth isn't sensitive to hot/cold/touch, then it is probably TN. Make sure you have regular dental check-ups to catch anything that might be brewing dentally.

8

I get pain focused on one particular tooth- mine is sensitive to touch, but have x-rays every time I go to the dentist and there's definitely no problem with it- otherwise I'm sure I'd have been like others on here and had it removed! If it was checked a week ago then it probably is fine.

9

Hello, to my knowledge, when I have a tooth pain it throbs. My teeth zaps with the electrical feelings and I know that’s my TN. I actually have both right now but are on opposite sides of my mouth. :slight_smile: