Sharp pain in a tooth when chewing can be a distressing experience, often described as a sudden, intense jolt. This discomfort signals that a tooth is reacting to the pressure and forces of biting and chewing, indicating an underlying issue.
Understanding the Causes
Several conditions can lead to sharp pain when chewing. A cracked tooth or fracture is a frequent cause, as chewing forces can cause the crack to flex, stimulating the sensitive inner pulp. Even a hairline crack, invisible to the naked eye, can produce significant discomfort when pressure is applied.
Dental cavities, especially deep ones, can cause sharp pain during chewing. Pressure on a tooth with a cavity can push food or fluids into the decay, irritating exposed nerve endings. Loose, worn, or fractured dental fillings can also expose sensitive dentin, leading to pain as the tooth’s internal tissues lack adequate protection.
Exposed tooth roots from gum recession can cause sharp pain when chewing, particularly if food contacts the sensitive root surface. The root lacks protective enamel, making it vulnerable to external stimuli. Inflammation of the tooth pulp (pulpitis) also causes heightened sensitivity and sharp pain when chewing. The inflamed pulp, encased within the rigid tooth, experiences increased pressure exacerbated by biting.
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can lead to micro-fractures or stress on teeth, causing pain when chewing. Repetitive forces from bruxism damage enamel and dentin, making teeth reactive to normal chewing pressure. Less commonly, referred pain from sinus infections can mimic tooth pain upon chewing, as sinus pressure can affect nerve endings perceived as originating from upper teeth.
When to See a Dentist
Sharp pain when chewing indicates a necessary professional dental evaluation. Persistent or worsening pain, especially if it interferes with eating, requires prompt attention. Delaying a dental visit can allow the issue to progress, leading to more complex treatment.
Seek dental care if pain accompanies swelling in the gums or face, fever, or difficulty opening your mouth. These signs may indicate infection or a severe condition requiring prompt intervention. Relying on self-diagnosis or managing pain with over-the-counter remedies without professional guidance is not advisable. A dental professional can accurately diagnose the cause and recommend the appropriate course of action.
Diagnosis and Treatment Approaches
The diagnostic process begins with a visual examination of teeth and gums. Dental X-rays identify issues not visible clinically, such as deep cavities, root problems, or bone loss. Dentists may also perform percussion tests, gently tapping the tooth to assess sensitivity and identify localized inflammation.
Biting tests, using a specific tool, pinpoint the exact tooth or area causing pain, especially for cracked teeth. Temperature sensitivity tests, using hot or cold stimuli, help determine pulp health. Once the cause is identified, treatment approaches vary.
Treatment for cavities involves a dental filling to remove decay and restore the tooth. Dental crowns are recommended for cracked teeth or large fillings, protecting the tooth and distributing chewing forces. If the tooth pulp is infected or inflamed, root canal therapy may be necessary to save the tooth.
Minor cracks might be addressed with bonding or veneers. For bruxism, a custom-fitted nightguard protects teeth from grinding. In severe, untreatable cases, tooth extraction may be the only option.
Steps for Prevention
Maintaining oral hygiene prevents dental issues that cause chewing pain. Regular brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and daily flossing removes plaque and food particles, reducing cavity and gum disease risk. Consistent dental check-ups and professional cleanings are important, allowing dentists to identify and address problems early.
For sports participants, wearing a protective mouthguard reduces the risk of tooth fractures or injuries causing chewing pain. If prone to teeth grinding or clenching, discuss this with your dentist for solutions like a nightguard. Avoiding chewing on hard objects, such as ice or hard candy, prevents unexpected tooth fractures or damage to dental work.