Pain and discomfort following cosmetic bonding of an intact tooth 8 months ago. Should the bonding be removed?

Question

I've been experiencing pain/discomfort with a front (left) tooth after having cosmetic bonding over an intact tooth 8 months ago. I'm not sure if the pain/discomfort is the tooth itself and/or the gum since the light used initially to bond the material to the tooth burned the gum line around this tooth. The discomfort is constant and mimics a toothache or the discomfort associated with tightened braces. Could this be an infection? Exposed dentin? Damaged enamel?

Ira Shapira, DDS · Answer

There are several scenarios possible for your discomfort.  The most common would be excess bonding under the gingiva causing periodontal inflamation.Another common issue are bite interferences introduced with the bonding material and this could lead to development of TMJ or chronic pain issues.It is possible the light overheated the pulp of the tooth and that it is dead or dying and a root canal treatment is required.The discomfort on the gum from the light is probable not an issue as that would heal rapidly.You asked: . Could this be an infection? Exposed dentin? Damaged enamel?  Damaged enamel ...probably notexposed dentin ....possible   infection...probably notIra L Shapira DDS, D,ABDSM, D,AAPM, FICCMOChair, Alliance of TMD OrganizationsDiplomat, American Academy of Pain ManagementDiplomat, American Board of Dental Sleep MedicineRegent & Fellow, International College of CranioMandibular OrthopedicsBoard Eligible, American Academy of CranioFacial PainDental Section Editor, Sleep & Health JournalMember, American Equilibration SocietyMember, Academy of Applied Myofunctional Sciences

John A. Merrill, DDS · Answer

I am sorry to hear that you are having this issue--Bonding on intact teeth usually have very little post op issues. It is possible that the gum tissue could be the problem either from trauma or from the composite needing to be improved in contour where it may be irritating the gums and causing them to swell. I would suggest that you follow up with the dentist and have them evaluate the situation for you.Good Luck.

Pain and discomfort following cosmetic bonding of an intact tooth 8 months ago. Should the bonding be removed?

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Pain and discomfort following cosmetic bonding of an intact tooth 8 months ago. Should the bonding be removed?

Answers (2)

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Everything you need to know about Dental Bonding

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.