A back molar hurting when chewing is a common and often unsettling experience, signaling that something is amiss within your oral health. This discomfort indicates an underlying issue that requires attention. Understanding the potential reasons behind this pain can help you address the problem effectively.
Common Causes of Chewing Pain
One frequent cause of discomfort when biting down is tooth decay, also known as cavities. As a cavity progresses, it erodes the tooth enamel and dentin, eventually reaching the sensitive pulp where nerves reside. When pressure from chewing is applied, it can irritate these exposed nerves, leading to sharp pain or sensitivity.
Another reason for pain during chewing is a cracked tooth. These fractures can be microscopic, extending into the dentin or even the pulp. Pain occurs when biting down directly on the crack or when releasing the bite, as the cracked parts of the tooth flex and then snap back.
Gum disease, specifically periodontitis, can also contribute to molar pain. This condition involves inflammation and infection of the gums and the bone supporting the teeth. When these supporting structures are compromised, the tooth can become loose or sensitive to pressure, making chewing uncomfortable. Inflammation around the tooth’s root can also directly cause pain.
A dental abscess, a localized collection of pus, develops due to a bacterial infection inside the tooth or in the surrounding gum tissue. This infection often results from untreated decay or a cracked tooth that allows bacteria to enter the pulp. The pressure from the pus pocket causes throbbing pain that intensifies with chewing or pressure on the affected area.
Bruxism, the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth, particularly during sleep, can lead to molar pain. The sustained force from grinding places stress on the teeth, jaw muscles, and temporomandibular joints. This pressure can cause generalized tooth sensitivity, muscle soreness, and specific pain in molars when chewing.
A misaligned bite, where teeth do not meet correctly when chewing, can also cause localized pain. When certain teeth bear excessive or uneven pressure during chewing, it can strain the tooth, its supporting ligaments, or the jawbone. This uneven distribution of force can lead to discomfort in the overstressed molar.
Pulpitis, the inflammation of the dental pulp inside the tooth, is another source of chewing pain. This inflammation can be reversible or irreversible, often stemming from deep cavities, trauma, or repeated dental procedures. When the inflamed pulp is subjected to pressure from chewing, it can trigger pain.
Immediate Steps for Relief
While waiting for professional dental care, several immediate steps can help manage the discomfort of a painful molar.
Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help reduce inflammation and clean the area around the painful tooth. Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water and swish for about 30 seconds before spitting it out.
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can temporarily alleviate the pain and reduce any associated swelling. Always follow the dosage instructions on the product label.
To minimize further irritation, avoid chewing on the affected side of your mouth. Stick to softer foods that require less effort to chew. This reduces direct pressure on the painful molar, providing temporary relief and preventing the worsening of symptoms.
Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek near the affected area can help reduce swelling and numb the pain. Hold an ice pack wrapped in a cloth against your face for 15-20 minutes at a time, with breaks in between. This helps constrict blood vessels and lessen inflammation.
It is also advisable to avoid foods and drinks that are extremely hot, cold, or sugary, as these can exacerbate tooth sensitivity. Hard or sticky foods should also be avoided, as they can put additional stress on an already compromised tooth. Careful food choices can reduce immediate discomfort.
When to Seek Professional Dental Care
While temporary measures can offer some immediate comfort, home remedies do not resolve the underlying cause of your molar pain. A painful molar, especially one that hurts when chewing, indicates an issue that requires professional diagnosis and treatment. Delaying care can lead to more severe complications.
You should seek dental attention promptly if the pain is severe, persistent, or worsens over time. Signs like noticeable swelling in your face or gums, a fever, or difficulty opening your mouth wide also warrant immediate professional evaluation. These symptoms can indicate a spreading infection that requires urgent intervention.
A dentist will conduct a thorough examination, which may include X-rays, to diagnose the cause of your chewing pain. They can identify issues such as deep cavities, hidden cracks, infections, or other structural problems. Based on the diagnosis, they will recommend the most appropriate course of action.
This professional assessment is important because the specific treatment depends on the root cause of the pain. For instance, a cavity might require a filling, while an infection might necessitate a root canal or extraction. Ignoring the pain can lead to the progression of conditions, potentially resulting in more extensive and complex treatments.