Fractured/cracked tooth signs and symptoms?

Question

Had an RCT done on #19 over a year ago and crown placed. This tooth is not hot/cold sensitive but my jaw has not felt right ever since and is getting worse. It aches into my middle ear , I feel almost a slight burning aching feeling in my jaw , it hurts my jaw to chew and open. Is it from this RCTd tooth? Is this a symptom of a cracked or fractured tooth? I don't want to have it pulled if it's not but I can't go on any longer with this level of discomfort. I have been to the endo as well.

Josef Cordero, DDS · Answer

Hello,
A fracture is easier to detect through a CT scan. It also helps to see if there is any infection. Additionally, performing a bite adjustment can help release the pain.

Joseph H. Hidalgo, DDS · Answer

Emma, it doesn't sound like a cracked tooth. If it is a cracked tooth it would be more of a sharp lancinating (needle stick) pain to pressure and would go away when the pressure is released. I assume the endodontist found nothing. When you say your jaw hurts is it in the jaw joint area? If so, it may be the bite has been altered enough on tooth 19 to set off a TMJ problem. I would associate your problem with 19 since you state it started at the time of the root canal? One question is did the pain start after the root canal or after the new crown was placed. I would suggest you see a dentist who is skilled in TMJ analysis. All the best.

Jennifer Ebner, DDS · Answer

Pain in the jaw can originate from teeth and non teeth sources. A non tooth source of pain may be misdiagnosed as needing a root canal treatment. This becomes more evident when the pain does not disappear after treatment. Non tooth sources of pain that mimic tooth pain include, but are not limited to, sinus infections (for upper teeth), salivary gland blockages, TMJ problems, neck problems, gum disease, grinding and even cardiac problems or muscle neuralgia. You may finding that an evaluation with a oral pain specialist may get to the root of your pain. Symptoms you describe like "burning" , "middle ear pain" and "pain when opening and closing" all point to the need for more evaluation.
Good luck, 
Dr Ebner

Kourosh Maddahi, DDS · Answer

Hi:It's best to go to your dentist and take an X-ray of the tooth to check for infection and also make sure the bite on the crown is right.  Bite issues can cause similar symptoms.Best,Dr. Maddahi

Nima Raoufinia, DDS · Answer

Sorry to hear about your situation.  I would make a trip back to your dentist for an emergency appointment and have the area looked at.  It may be the tooth (#19) or could be another tooth that is causing what you are describing.

Fractured/cracked tooth signs and symptoms?

Answers (6)

Answer: Pain in the jaw and ear

Answer: Pain in the jaw and ear

Answer: Need to see your Dentist

Answer: Need to see your Dentist

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Fractured/cracked tooth signs and symptoms?

Answers (6)

Answer: Pain in the jaw and ear

Answer: Pain in the jaw and ear

Answer: Need to see your Dentist

Answer: Need to see your Dentist

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Everything you need to know about Dental Crown

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