Experiencing tooth pain when biting down or chewing can be concerning, especially when it happens unexpectedly. Several specific factors can lead to this type of discomfort.
Recognizing these warning signs early can help you address the underlying issue and protect your tooth. According to our Chandler Dentists, the pain you experience while chewing often stems from one of several common dental problems.
Keep reading to discover the potential causes of your tooth pain and how to alleviate it.
Common Causes of Tooth Pain
Cavity
When you have a cavity, it means there’s decay in your tooth that has created a hole or weakened area in the enamel, the hard outer layer of your tooth. As the cavity progresses, the decay can reach deeper layers of the tooth, including the dentin and possibly the pulp, where nerves and blood vessels reside.
In some cases, a cavity can weaken the tooth so much that it causes a small fracture or crack. When you bite down, the pressure on this compromised area can cause pain.
Injury to the Tooth
A physical injury, such as from biting down on something hard or suffering a blow to the face, can cause a tooth to crack or fracture. Even if the crack is not visible, it can still cause sharp pain when chewing. This pain occurs because the pressure of biting causes the cracked pieces of the tooth to move slightly, irritating the nerve inside the tooth.
Gum Disease
Gum disease begins with gingivitis, characterized by inflammation and swelling of the gums. This inflammation can make the gums tender and sensitive. When you chew, the pressure applied to these inflamed gums can exacerbate the pain, causing discomfort.
As gum disease progresses to periodontitis, the gum tissue may begin to recede from the teeth. This recession exposes the tooth roots, which are more sensitive than the enamel-covered parts of the tooth. Chewing can cause discomfort as the exposed roots are subjected to pressure and abrasion.
Advanced gum disease can lead to infection or the formation of abscesses in the gums. These infections can cause localized pain and swelling. When you chew, the pressure can aggravate the infected area, leading to sharp or throbbing pain.
Loose Filling or Crown
When a filling or crown becomes loose, it can expose the underlying tooth structure that was previously protected. This exposure can make the tooth more sensitive to pressure and temperature changes. Chewing can irritate the exposed areas, causing pain.
In most cases, a loose filling or crown often indicates that the tooth or restoration beneath it may be compromised. When you chew, the pressure on the tooth may cause discomfort if the tooth is cracked, decayed, or otherwise damaged. The loose restoration can exacerbate the pain by not providing proper support.
Malocclusion
Malocclusion, or misalignment of the teeth and jaws, can lead to discomfort or pain while chewing. The uneven pressure distribution when biting and chewing, if the teeth do not align properly, can strain the teeth, gums, and jaw joints, leading to pain or discomfort.
Misalignment can affect your ability to chew food efficiently. When teeth do not align properly, it may be difficult to break down food effectively, which can lead to discomfort while chewing and potential digestive issues due to poorly chewed food.
Treating the Cause of Tooth Pain
If you experience pain when biting down, consulting your dental care provider can help identify the underlying cause and determine the appropriate treatment. Your provider will assess whether the pain is due to sensitivity or a more serious issue, such as a cracked or damaged tooth.
Depending on the diagnosis and severity, treatments may range from a root canal to home remedies for sensitive teeth. Addressing the issue promptly can help alleviate pain and restore comfort.
Conclusion
Tooth pain is not something that will simply resolve on its own. Unlike other body aches that might improve with rest or over-the-counter medications, a toothache indicates a potentially serious issue within your mouth that should not be overlooked.
If you experience pain in one or more teeth while biting or chewing, it’s important to schedule an exam with a Chandler dentist. Our dental team can provide the necessary evaluation and guidance to address the issue and help maintain your dental health for years to come.