unexplained pain after implant

[kmcc]

Long story - had a very traumatic tooth #14 extraction, resulted in dry socket, bits of bone and tooth left in the gum. Had those bits removed by a second dentist. Then waited months for bone to 'fill in'  (no bone graft).  Following that,  had the implant put in, and while waiting for that to take, the screw worked itself out - had to replace that. Continued to have inexplicable pain - throbbing, aching - had the implant removed 5 months later.  Now, it's been 6 months since the implant was removed - still having periodic pain that nobody can explain - all x-rays look good, had a bone scan which appears fine. Third dentist wants to redo the implant - this time a shorter, wider one. But, I'm afraid to do it since the pain is still there. It's so hard to describe to people - throbbing, aching, sometimes I can almost feel it coming on - like a very light electric shock (and I can almost hear it when it happens).  I'm afraid there was some nerve damage or lingering infection when the initial implant was done.  Are there any other tests that can be run?  

[kmcc]

thanks so much for your reply.  The pain was terrible yesterday, and continues to bother me.  Can you recommend a maxillofacial surgeon in NYC ?

[Michael H Kirsch, DDS]

What have described is most consistent with a condition called Trigeminal Neuralgia.  It is initially treated with medications which also confirms the diagnosis.

Prior to the initiation of drugs, a comprehensive exam and history should be obtained by a Board Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon.  Other explanations for your pain may include adjacent teeth and your maxillary sinus.

A bone scan is not the most appropriate study for your symptoms.  A CT scan and/or MRI is more sensitive depending on the clinical findings.

Information contained within this reply is intended solely for general educational purposes and is not intended nor implied to be a medical diagnosis or treatment recommendation.  This is not a substitute for professional medical advice relative to your specific medical condition or question. Always seek the advice of your own doctor for medical condition. Only your doctor can provide specific diagnoses and therapies.