Pain when biting down indicates an underlying issue within the tooth, gums, or surrounding tissues. This sensation signals an issue in your oral health. Such pain is not normal and requires investigation. Addressing this symptom promptly can prevent further damage or more severe complications.
Common Reasons for Biting Pain
One frequent cause of pain when biting is a cracked tooth. These cracks can be microscopic, extending from the chewing surface towards the root. When pressure is applied during biting, the crack can flex, stimulating sensitive pulp tissue and causing sharp pain.
Dental caries, commonly known as cavities, frequently cause discomfort when chewing. As decay progresses, it erodes enamel and dentin, exposing the sensitive inner pulp to pressure and temperature changes. Biting down can put direct pressure on the weakened tooth or push food particles into the cavity, leading to pain.
Inflammation or infection of the gums, known as gingivitis or periodontitis, can contribute to biting pain. Inflamed gums weaken the ligaments and bone supporting the tooth, making it feel loose or sensitive to pressure. Advanced gum disease can lead to pockets around teeth where bacteria accumulate, causing tenderness and pain when biting.
A dental abscess, a localized collection of pus, causes significant pain that often intensifies with biting. This infection typically forms at the tip of the tooth root (periapical abscess) or in the gums (periodontal abscess) due to untreated decay or gum disease. The pressure from accumulated pus creates throbbing pain exacerbated by chewing.
Bruxism, the habitual grinding or clenching of teeth, places excessive force on teeth and their supporting structures. This constant stress can lead to tooth sensitivity, fractures, and jaw muscle pain, making biting uncomfortable. People often clench or grind unconsciously, especially during sleep or stress.
Recent dental work can result in temporary sensitivity or pain when biting. After procedures like fillings, crowns, or root canals, the tooth may be temporarily inflamed as it heals. This sensitivity typically subsides within a few days or weeks.
Referred pain from other areas can manifest as tooth pain when biting. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, affecting the jaw joint and muscles, can cause pain radiating to the teeth. Sinus infections can similarly cause pressure and pain in upper back teeth, which might feel worse when biting.
When to Consult a Dentist
Consult a dentist if you experience persistent pain when biting down that does not resolve within a day or two. Pain that continues after you stop chewing or without an obvious trigger warrants professional evaluation. Delaying a dental visit can allow underlying issues to worsen, potentially leading to more complex treatments.
Sharp, intense pain, a throbbing sensation, or pain that wakes you up at night are signs a significant problem may be present. These symptoms suggest a deeper issue, such as an infection or nerve involvement, requiring prompt diagnosis and intervention.
Accompanying symptoms also indicate the need for a dental consultation. Swelling in the gums or face, a fever, an unpleasant taste, or visible tooth damage like a chip or crack should prompt care. Difficulty eating, speaking, or sleeping due to pain indicates the condition significantly impacts daily life and requires professional assessment.
Dental Diagnosis and Treatment
When you visit a dentist for biting pain, they will begin with a thorough visual examination of your teeth and gums. This inspection identifies visible signs of decay, cracks, swelling, or gum inflammation. The dentist will also discuss your symptoms, including when the pain started, its intensity, and what makes it better or worse.
Dental X-rays are a common diagnostic tool to visualize areas not visible during a clinical examination. These images can reveal hidden cavities, bone loss around roots, an abscess, or issues with tooth roots. Different X-rays provide various perspectives, aiding in a comprehensive assessment.
To pinpoint the exact tooth causing pain, dentists perform specific tests. A biting test, often using a Tooth Slooth, applies pressure to individual cusps to identify a crack. Percussion tests involve gently tapping on teeth for tenderness, while thermal tests use hot or cold stimuli to assess nerve response.
Treatment for biting pain is tailored to the specific diagnosis. For cavities, a dental filling removes the decayed portion and restores the tooth’s structure. If a tooth has a significant crack or extensive decay, a dental crown may be recommended to cover and protect it.
For deep infection or an abscess, root canal therapy removes the infected pulp and saves the tooth. Antibiotics may be prescribed for bacterial infections, especially if an abscess is present. For bruxism, a custom-fitted nightguard protects teeth from grinding and clenching forces.
Preventing Biting Pain
Good oral hygiene prevents many causes of biting pain. Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste removes plaque and food particles, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Flossing daily cleans between teeth and below the gumline, areas toothbrushes cannot effectively reach.
Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are important for early detection and prevention. Dentists can identify and treat small cavities before they cause pain and remove hardened plaque (calculus) that contributes to gum disease. These routine visits allow for proactive oral health management.
Using protective measures reduces the risk of tooth damage. If you play sports, a custom-fitted mouthguard protects teeth from impact injuries. For those who grind or clench, a nightguard during sleep prevents excessive wear, fractures, and associated pain.
Dietary considerations also play a role in preventing biting pain. Limiting sugary and acidic foods and drinks reduces tooth decay risk. Avoiding chewing on hard objects like ice or popcorn kernels prevents tooth fractures and chips.