Found this site when I was researching jaw and sinus pain. I had 7 fillings replaced and three crowns. Since my first visit I have had much pain that has been described by others on this site... Upper left sinus, tooth, jaw, face - feels like it is going to shatter.... The dentist said it was because I now am grinding my teeth and need a mouth guard. I know I am more stressed around the face and may be clenching my mouth but I am pretty sure that I am not grinding them... Is this an appropriate treatment for the pain. I didn't really see anything about this in the other thread I looked at.

Thanks!

Hi AzLady,

First of all, did you have jaw pain prior to all of this new dentistry?

2) The new restorations may need to be adjusted more carefully.

3) Your bite may have had to be permanently altered to achieve a proper occlusion. Meaning the new restorations may have been made to reposition an already existing bad bite. This has to be done very carefully as it can set off a slew of musculature problems.

4) A clenching habit can cause similar problems as a grinding habit. Both of these issues need to be identified and corrected to prevent long term damage to the teeth and the jaw.

5) Depending on the situation, a night guard can be helpful.

Perhaps you should discuss this situation further with your dentist. Have him re evaluate your bite, make the adjustments and evaluate any wear on your teeth indicating a clenching or grinding habit, and then come up with a plan to relieve the symptoms.

Bryanna