I had a tooth extracted. It has been achy, which I figured was normal. Then a huge snowstorm hit and I had to shovel snow for close to five hours. It started hurting more after that. It’s also starting to get sensitive to warm foods, which has me worried. Did I do something?
Ken
Dear Ken,
You are correct that it is fairly normal for an extraction site to ache for a bit after the procedure. It is also normal for a flare-up of discomfort if you have physical exertion, such as you experienced. I am not concerned about that. The one thing that does concern me is the sensitivity to warm food.
During some tooth extractions, the root of the adjacent tooth can become exposed. Without addressing this, problems will worsen. For example, as the pulp dies, it builds up gas. When it also encounters warmth, such as when you eat warm food. This will cause the gasses to expand. Because the gas is confined to the tooth, it has nowhere to go and that causes pain you are feeling. This needs to be looked at by your dentist.
You mentioned your extractions but did not mention any plans for a tooth replacement. this will be important. If that space is left open for too long, that will allow the adjacent teeth to shift or tip into the open space. This will lead to bite problems, which in turn leads to TMJ Disorder.
Replacing the tooth makes this very preventable. If you are in decent health and able, replacing a tooth with a dental implant is the best option. It is the most like having a healthy natural tooth, as well as helping to preserve your jawbone from resorption.
This blog is brought to you by West Seneca Dentist Dr. Warren Krutchick.