Hi Tom,
Long time since we've "seen" you..... how's your golf game?
Tooth #24 is one of the lower front teeth. These teeth are generally smaller and they often have a small root structure compared to other teeth. They are prone to recession and also to fracture more so than most other teeth.
When a tooth is tender or hurts to tap on it, some causes of that would be...... inflammation from the bite being off..... inflammation from the periodontal ligament that holds the tooth in the bone..... a deep pocket that is harboring bacteria ...... a fracture in the root ...... or an infection.
Your recent cleaning could have stirred up some bacteria around that tooth which may have caused inflammation. Did the hygienist take xrays of your whole mouth or just the 4 bite wings to check for cavities on the posterior teeth?
I suggest that you go back to the dentist and have them take an xray of that area. Even if they took one at your cleaning appointment... take another to compare.
Hope all else is well by you! Keep us posted
Bryanna
Quote:
Originally Posted by threeputt
I turn age 67 in 6 days so my teeth are old
I was just a the dentist for my yearly checkup on the 5th of this month.
X-rays were done and also cleaning. The told me all was good and to keep up the good work. Thursday night I noticed tooth number 24 would hurt when I would tap on it. No pain felt unless I eat or tap something on it. I could not reach my dentist as they are closed on Friday. This morning I decided I needed to find at least a doctor. They give me some antibiotics and told me to get to the dentist Monday. I sure don't want to mess with a tooth infection. There is no swelling on the gum and just looking at the tooth it looks fine. I cannot remember ever having any problems with these front teeth. It just strange that all of sudden a tooth starts hurting. I need advice to what step I need to take. I sure hate to have this tooth pulled but if it has to go then so be it. The pain is not as bad as it was yesterday but its still there. Thanks for any help. Tom |