Expert: Jeff Dalin DDS - 11/30/2006

Question
Hello,
The best way I can explain is that I have a pain in (what feels like) by 2nd to last tooth on the upper right side. But it is not really the tooth.  I like to job and expercise and whenever I have a hard impact with the ground it causes like a nerve sensation my this tooth area.  It is not overly painful, and it has no other symtoms.  I also like to box for fun (with head gear) and if I am hit in the head it also hurts at this point only.  Again, this pain is only in one tooth area and feels like a nerve sensation.  I had my wisdom's out about 1.5yrs ago now and I had the same pain before I had them out.  I told the Dr. and he said it could be the wisdoms but likely somthing that would go away from my nerves being close to my sinuses.  Is this the likely scenario and something I will have to deal with because of my sinuses throughout life?  I of course understand you can give no definite answer on this site and would refer to me to my denist, just looking for a heads up. Thank You very much and Happy Holidays. Dave Knazur  

Answer
without seeing you in person, i can only give you some ideas. since your wisdom teeth are out, you can rule that out. the sinus idea sounds like a distinct possibility to me. you are giving me classic symptoms of sinuses bothering upper first molars...this is very common. here is one possible way to diagnose this. take a decongestant and see if the symptoms improve. a decongestant will do nothing for a tooth...but it can relieve sinus pressure. if you notice improvement, then you have your diagnosis. i assume your dentist took an xray and did an exam on you. make sure there is no decay present...make sure not gum or bone issues going on...make sure no cracks in the teeth. if all checks out, then i am out of ideas. good luck...and happy holidays to you as well. let me know if you have any other questions.

jeff dalin, dds