I am in the midst of having a root canal and I went back to the dentist last night for a crown fitting. I told her I have been having some jaw discomfort and some sporadic twinges. Historically, I have had jaw discomfort from grinding my teeth. Initially, she told me not to worry and I asked her to check the x-rays again, at which point she said there was a minor radiopacity that she was "just going to keep an eye on." Then, she asked me if I wanted a referral to the oral surgeon ... not really sure why she didn't know how to handle it independent of asking me. Of course, I wanted a referral but now I am freaking out about cancer. What could this be?

Hi JB

First of all, try to calm down. I know it's difficult to do that when you're scared shortsless at the prospect of cancer, but stressing out won't do you a bit of good.

Do you have a long wait to see the oral surgeon? When you go to the appointment, please take someone with you, along with any questions you might have.

Sorry to hear about needing a root canal--I've had three of them (2 on one tooth, go figure) and they just flat out suck.

Did your dentist bring in anyone else in the practice to look at the x-ray and give another opinion of what the opacity might be? Sounds like her chairside manner leave a lot to be desired.

Please let us know how things turn out for you; I'm hoping for the best.

Julia

Hi

There are several types of radio-opacities. Idiopathic (no known reason) radio-opacities are sometimes seen on radiographs in the jaw bones without any real pathological relevance. Other types of radio-opacities are related to roots of live teeth (cementomas). Sometimes, it is a chronic reaction to a dead nerve in the tooth. The oral surgeon can make a diagnosis and confirm this. Hence the referral. It is unlikely to be a cancer.

The jaw discomfort from grinding your teeth is unrelated. You might be having a temporomandibular disorder (TMD) which can present as limited jaw opening, clicking jaw, jaw ache (masticatory myofascial pain). You might find the advice given helpful.

Let us know how you get on.

Best wishes
Vinod